Quick Connect and Quick Disconnect System and Method of Manipulating a Quick Connect and Quick Disconnect System

ABSTRACT

A method of manipulating a quick connect/disconnect system includes connecting a first coupling portion of a first connecting member to a fluid conductor and inserting a second coupling portion of the first connecting member within a third coupling portion of a second connecting member. The method further includes inserting the third coupling portion within a ring assembly which is rotatably coupled to the first coupling portion and engaging a mating feature on an external surface of the third coupling portion with a mating feature on an internal surface of the ring assembly. The method also includes rotating the ring assembly about the third coupling portion while the first mating portion is engaged with the second mating portion; and forcing the second coupling portion to move further within the third coupling portion by rotation of the ring assembly.

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisionalapplication Ser. No. 61/662,559, filed Jun. 21, 2012, U.S. provisionalapplication Ser. No. 61/730,611, filed Nov. 28, 2012, U.S. provisionalapplication Ser. No. 61/790,045, filed Mar. 15, 2013, and U.S.provisional application Ser. No. 61/790,451, filed Mar. 15, 2013 thedisclosures which are herein incorporated by reference in itsentireties.

FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to connectors for fluid systems andvessels and more particularly to connectors for fluid systems that arequickly connectable and quickly disconnectable from each other.

BACKGROUND

Quick connect and quick disconnect systems, also referred to as couplersystems, are widely utilized in wide variety of industrial, household,medical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and commercial applications. Oneapplication for coupler systems are for garden and lawn use. Anotherapplication for coupler systems is for automotive nozzles and hoses forfuel delivery, such as gasoline and other petroleum-based products. Yetanother application for coupler systems is for vacuum cleaners, powertools, or other devices for collecting debris or dispensing fluid.Fluids, such as beverages, fuels, liquid chemicals, fluid food products,gases, water, and air are also frequently delivered from one vessel toanother through a fluid system.

Coupler systems typically include a first connector and a secondconnector. The first connector is typically associated with a fluiddevice and the second connector is typically associated with a fluidconductor. For example, a coupler system is configured for use with afluid device provided as a water spray nozzle and a fluid conductorprovided as a hose. The first connector is connected to the spray nozzleand the second connector is connected to the hose. The coupler systemsimplifies connecting and disconnecting the spray nozzle from the hose,as described below, with reference to a typical connection of a spraynozzle to a hose.

The typical hose includes an internally threaded end portion that isconnected to a spigot and an opposite externally threaded end portion towhich fluid devices are connectable. To connect a typical spray nozzleto the externally threaded end portion, first the user stops the flow ofwater through the hose. Next, the user aligns connection threads of thespray nozzle with threads of the externally threaded end portion of thehose. Then the user repeatedly rotates the spray nozzle relative to thehose to mechanically and to fluidly connect the spray nozzle to thehose. Some users require a separate hand tool, such as a wrench, torotate the spray nozzle or to stabilize the hose during the rotation ofthe spray nozzle. Hoses available in Europe typically do not require athreaded feature or a barb feature. Instead, the connector ismechanically connected to the hose or the fluid system using acompression fitting method. Of course, other forms of fittings arepossible.

The above described process is inconvenient since the supply of waterthrough the hose is stopped before connection of the spray nozzle ismade. Second, the process requires sufficient strength and dexterity torotate the spray nozzle. Third, the connection of the spray nozzle tothe hose is subject to leaking.

Coupler systems seek to simplify the above described process by makingconnection of the spray nozzle to the hose fast and easy. Couplersystems typically include a male connector and a female connector one ofwhich includes a locking feature. To connect the connectors, the maleconnector is received by the female connector and the locking feature isengaged. To disconnect the connectors, the locking feature is disengagedand the male connector is separated from the female connector. Thestructure of the male connector and the female connector, as well as themethod of operating the locking feature, varies between different modelsof coupler systems.

Even though coupler systems seek to simplify connection of a fluiddevice to a fluid conductor, coupler systems typically suffer fromnumerous problems. First, some coupler systems include a locking featurethat is difficult disengage, especially when the fluid in the fluidconductor is under pressure. For example, conventional quick connectorproducts having a shut off feature require significant force to overcomeline pressure, thus becoming an issue to the user using the product.Second, some coupler systems are quick to connect and to disconnect, butare prone to leaking. Third, some coupler systems are expensive and timeconsuming to manufacture. Accordingly, the time savings provided by somecoupler systems are at a cost of being difficult to disengage, leaky,and expensive.

For at least the above-described reasons, further developments in thearea of quick connect and quick disconnect systems for fluid systems aredesirable.

SUMMARY

A summary of certain embodiments disclosed herein is set forth below. Itshould be understood that these aspects are presented merely to providethe reader with a brief summary of these certain embodiments and thatthese aspects are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.Indeed, this disclosure may encompass a variety of aspects that may notbe set forth below.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, a quickconnect/disconnect system includes a first connecting member and asecond connecting member. The first connecting member includes (i) afirst body defining a first fluid channel therethrough, the first bodyhaving a first coupling portion at a first end portion and a secondcoupling portion at a second end portion, and (ii) a first rotating ringassembly rotatably connected to the first body, the first rotating ringassembly extending about the second end portion and including a firstmating feature on an internal surface of the rotating ring assembly. Thesecond connecting member includes (i) a third end portion defining athird coupling portion with a second fluid channel, (ii) a fourth endportion defining a fourth coupling portion configured to couple with thesecond coupling portion, and (iii) a second mating feature on anexternal surface of the fourth end portion configured to rotatablyengage the first mating feature, such that when the fourth couplingportion is coupled with the second coupling portion and the secondmating feature is rotatably mated with the first mating feature, thefirst fluid channel is in fluid communication with the second fluidchannel.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, a method ofmanipulating a quick connect/disconnect system includes connecting afirst coupling portion of a first connecting member to a fluid conductorand inserting a second coupling portion of the first connecting memberwithin a third coupling portion of a second connecting member. Themethod further includes inserting the third coupling portion within aring assembly which is rotatably coupled to the first coupling portionand engaging a mating feature on an external surface of the thirdcoupling portion with a mating feature on an internal surface of thering assembly. The method also includes rotating the ring assembly aboutthe third coupling portion while the first mating portion is engagedwith the second mating portion, and forcing the second coupling portionto move further within the third coupling portion by rotation of thering assembly.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, a leakfreesystem includes a first connecting member and a second connectingmember. The first connecting member includes (i) a first body defining afirst fluid channel therethrough, the first body having a first couplingportion at a first end portion and a second coupling portion at a secondend portion, and (ii) a first rotating ring assembly rotatably connectedto the first body, the first rotating ring assembly extending about thesecond end portion and including a first mating feature on an internalsurface of the rotating ring assembly. The second connecting memberincludes (i) a third end portion defining a third coupling portion witha second fluid channel, (ii) a fourth end portion defining a fourthcoupling portion configured to couple with the second coupling portion,and (iii) a second mating feature on an external surface of the fourthend portion configured to rotatably engage the first mating feature,such that when the fourth coupling portion is coupled with the secondcoupling portion and the second mating feature is rotatably mated withthe first mating feature, the first fluid channel is in fluidcommunication with the second fluid channel.

Embodiments of the disclosure related to quick connect/disconnectsystems and methods for connecting and disconnecting fluid dispensingdevices. The devices can be hoses, faucets, tubes, pipes, sprinklers,nozzles, wands, other hose attachments, fluid supply source for nongarden devices, or combination thereof. The fluid supply source can be,for example, a gas pipe, an air pipe, or a valve. The system includes amain body or frame and a locking body abuts to the main body forprotecting internal components. The main body and the locking bodyinclude an outer wall defining a grip surface as a user interface forreleasing or disengaging a male connecting body.

The system further includes a shutoff plug, a first seal member such asan O-ring, a spacer, a male connecting body, and a biasing member. Inone example, the locking body includes an annular groove for receiving afirst seal member. The locking body is adapted for receiving at leastone of the components. The locking body converts rotational motion tolinear motion to move a first end of the male connecting body. A helicalrotation about the locking body also provides mechanism advantage to theinsertion of the male connecting body.

In one embodiment, a second housing may be provided for receiving themale connecting body and protecting other internal components. Thelocking body engages an outer wall of the second housing furtherprovides protection to the internal components retained in the first andsecond housings.

The seal secures to an inner connecting wall of the first housingadjacent to the spring. The spacer engaged the inner connecting wall ofthe first housing is held in place between the seal and the lip seal. Inone embodiment of the present disclosure, the seal is a separate piecepart and sits on the inner connecting wall of the first housing. Inanother embodiment of the disclosure, the seal can be pressed fixed orintegrated to the first housing as monolithic device.

The shutoff plug is placed into an opening of the spacer and slidesfreely within the spacer. The shutoff plug and the spacer provide afluid-tight mating surface to the seal. The shutoff plug and the spacerfurther provide a fluid-passage to pressurize the lip seal. The sealprevents fluid passage when the plug is in the closed position. Sealprevents leakage between first body and second body.

The male connecting member including a flange integral with an exteriorsurface of the male connecting member adjacent to the locking member. Aretaining member, such as a snap ring engages in flange and retains thelocking element to the connecting end of the male connecting member.Snap ring allows for free rotation of the locking member in relation tothe connector end of the male connecting member. When the locking memberand the retaining member integrated into the fluid dispensing device,the device rotates freely in relation to the male connecting member.

A second seal member, such as a lip seal provides a fluid-tight sealbetween the spacer and the second body. The lip seal provides afluid-tight seal between the spacer and the connector end. The lip sealpressurized to provide auxiliary sealing force between fluid passage andconnector end. The lip seal may also act as an environmental barrier forany contamination due to debris for the connector end surface.

O-ring provides insertion seal between the connector end and the secondbody. O-ring provides retraction seal between the connector end and thesecond body. O-ring provides a secondary seal between the connector endand the second body. Like the lip seal, the O-ring may also act as anenvironmental barrier for the connector end surface. It will beunderstood that various configurations or geometry of a seal member maybe used in the application and be able to serve the general function.

The first and second seal members are selected from a group consistingof O-ring, a lip seal, a hydrant seal, or a combination thereof.

A coupling assembly, such as a male hose coupling positively engages afluid dispensing system, such as a hose end product. The male hosecoupling provides geometry adequate to retain the snap ring. The malehose coupling provides adequate clearance geometry for the locking ring.The male hose coupling provides adequate sealing surface for O-ring andthe lip seal. The male hose coupling provides face to face engagementbetween the first assembly and the locking member.

A biasing element, such as a spring provides positive no-flow shut-offforce. Spring centers the plug. The spring also provides adequate fluidflow to the plug. Yet further, the spring provides low pressure shutoff.

The quick connect/disconnect system is provided for receiving at leastone fluid dispensing devices. The system is compact, easy tomanufacture, is spray free when connecting to and disconnecting from thepressurized fluid dispensing device. The system is leak free.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The above-described features and advantages, as well as others, shouldbecome more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art byreference to the following detailed description and the accompanyingfigures in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram representing a quick connect/disconnect systemconfigured to perform the techniques disclosed herein, in accordancewith an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a connecting member of FIG. 2, inaccordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle connector shown in FIG. 3,in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an oscillator connector that may beused in the system; in accordance with various embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a hose connector that may be used inthe system; in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 7A is a side view illustrating the system, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 7B is an exploded view illustrating of FIG. 7A, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 7B, in accordance with variousembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view illustrating the system, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 8B is an exploded view illustrating of FIG. 8A, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 8B, in accordance with variousembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 9A is a side view illustrating the system, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 9B is an exploded view illustrating of FIG. 9A, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 9B, in accordance with variousembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the system, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view illustrating the system, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 11B is an exploded view illustrating of FIG. 11A, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 11C is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 11B, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view illustrating the system, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 12B is an exploded view illustrating of FIG. 12A, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 12C is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 12B, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view illustrating the system, inaccordance with various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 13B is an exploded view illustrating of FIG. 13A, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view illustrating the system, inaccordance with various embodiments of the disclosure; and

FIG. 14B is an exploded view illustrating of FIG. 14A, in accordancewith various embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a quickconnect/disconnect system of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a first body of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including a first and second planview, first and second end views and a detailed view of threads of thefirst body.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a second body of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including a first and second planview, first and second end views and a detailed view of threads of thesecond body.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a shuttle of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including a plan view of one endportion and first and second end views.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a spacer of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including an end view and adetailed view of a portion of the spacer.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a seal assembly of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including a first and second endviews.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a locking ring of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including a first and a second endview and a detailed view of the locking ring.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a male coupling of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including an end view and adetailed view of the male coupling.

FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of a fluid system, as describedherein, including a nozzle, a first coupler system, a hose, a secondcoupler system, and a sillcock;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a male connector of the first couplersystem of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a rear elevational view of the male connector of FIG. 24;

FIG. 27 is a front elevational view of the male connector of FIG. 24;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a female connector of the first couplersystem of FIG. 23;

FIG. 29 is a side elevational view of the female connector of FIG. 28showing a groove of the female connector;

FIG. 30 is an elevational view of a portion of the female connector ofFIG. 28 showing a groove;

FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of the female connector of FIG.28;

FIG. 32 is a cross sectional view of the female connector of FIG. 28;

FIG. 33 is a cross sectional view of a shuttle guide structure of thefemale connector of FIG. 28;

FIG. 34 is a front elevational view of the shuttle guide structure ofFIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a male connector of the second couplersystem of FIG. 23;

FIG. 36 is a cross sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a female connector of the secondcoupler system of FIG. 23;

FIG. 38 is a cross sectional view of the female connector of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a cross sectional view of a flanged seal member of the femaleconnector of FIG. 37;

FIG. 40 is front elevational view of the flanged seal member of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating the fluidsystem of FIG. 23;

FIG. 42 is a cross sectional view of the fluid system of FIG. 23 shownin disconnected configuration;

FIG. 43 is a cross sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 35 andthe female connector of FIG. 37, with the male connector showndisconnected from the female connector and the female connector shownconnected to the sillcock of FIG. 23;

FIG. 44 is a cross sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 35 andthe female connector of FIG. 37, with the male connector shown connectedto the female connector and the female connector shown connected to thesillcock of FIG. 23;

FIG. 45 is a cross sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 24 andthe female connector of FIG. 28, with the male connector showndisconnected from the female connector;

FIG. 46 is a cross sectional view of the male connector of FIG. 24 andthe female connector of FIG. 28, with the male connector shown connectedto the female connector;

FIG. 47 is cross sectional view of a nozzle apparatus including a maleconnector integrally formed therewith;

FIG. 48 is a cross sectional view of a nozzle apparatus including a maleconnector integrally formed therewith;

FIG. 49 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the firstcoupler system that is configured for flow control, the coupler systemis shown in a position of low flow;

FIG. 50 is a cross sectional view the coupler system of FIG. 49 shown ina position of high flow;

FIG. 51 is an elevational view of a portion of the female connector ofFIG. 28 showing an alternative embodiment of the groove that isconfigured for flow control; and

FIG. 52A is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the firstcoupler system that includes an expansion chamber for relieving fluidpressure;

FIG. 52B is a cross sectional view of yet another embodiment of thefirst coupler system that includes an expansion chamber for relievingfluid pressure showing a male connector connected to a female connector;

FIG. 52C is a cross sectional view of the female connector of FIG. 52B;

FIG. 53 is block diagram of an adapter for use with the coupler systemof the fluid system of FIG. 23; and

FIG. 54 is a cross sectional view of a filling apparatus for use withthe female connector of FIG. 28.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of thedisclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated inthe drawings and described in the following written specification. It isunderstood that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is therebyintended. It is further understood that this disclosure includes anyalterations and modifications to the illustrated embodiments andincludes further applications of the principles of the disclosure aswould normally occur to one skilled in the art to which this disclosurepertains.

A quick connect/disconnect system may be structured and formed in avariety of different ways. In one example, a quick connect/disconnectsystem may be formed with an integrated external locking body or framefor receiving a male connecting member. In other example, a quickconnect/disconnect system may be formed with an internal locking body orframe having an expansion chamber configured to reduce fluid pressure asan external component is removed or disconnected from the locking body.The external component may be a male connecting member.

Turning now to the figures, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the flexibility andusefulness of a quick connect/disconnect system 10 in accordance withone or more of the herein described embodiments. The system 10 provideseasy connection and disconnection and is leak free. Further, the systemsignificantly reduces or eliminates the spraying of fluid when engagingand disengaging the pressurized fluid dispensing device. The fluiddispensing device can be a nozzle 12, a hose 14, a sprinkler 16, anoscillator 18, a wand 20, a faucet 22, a hose to hose configuration (notshown), other hose attachments, a fluid supply source 23 for non gardendevices, or combinations thereof. Other examples of devices arepossible.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the system 10 includes a female connecting member30 and a male connecting member 40 interconnected to the femaleconnecting member, eliminating the need for a separate coupler or anadaptor. A locking member may be implemented or integrated into one ofthe connecting members 30, 40. The locking member will be described ingreater detail below.

In one example, a connecting end of the female connecting member 30 iscoupled to the nozzle 12 and a connecting end of the male connectingmember 40 is coupled to the hose 14, and vice versa. In other example,the connecting end of the female connecting member 30 is coupled to theoscillator (not shown). It will be understood that certain combinationsand subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without referenceto other features and subcombinations. For example, a hose to hosesystem.

The connecting ends of the connecting members 30, 40 are shown in detailin FIG. 3-6. The female connecting member 30 includes a female lockingsleeve 32, a retaining ring 34, and a connector 36. The locking sleeve32 having a peripheral wall 38 and terminates at a first distal edge 38a. A through hole 38 b is formed on a surface 38 e by any knowntechniques, as illustrated in FIG. 3, for receiving the connector 36. Aplurality of slots (not shown) communicating with the through hole 38 bmay be provided within an inner wall surface 38 e to receive a pin (notshown). In another embodiment, the pin may be integrated to the slot toretain after receiving parts. Yet in another embodiment, the throughhole 38 b is formed on an outer wall and communicates the outer wall tothe inner wall via the pin.

The connector 36 includes at least one flange, two flanges 36 a, 36 b,are illustrated. The retaining ring 34 is disposed between the flange 36a and the surface 38 e adjacent to the through hole 38 b. When theconnector 36 inserted into the interior of the locking sleeve 32, theflange 38 b engages an inner wall 38 c of the locking sleeve 32.

A connecting end 36 c of the connector 36 is sized to be substantiallyconformed to an outer receiving surface of the fluid dispensing device.In one example, the connector is a nozzle connector 36′, in FIG. 4. Inanother example, the connector is an oscillator connector 36″, asdepicted in FIG. 5. In yet another example, the connector is a hoseconnector 36″, as shown in FIG. 6. Although the pin and through hole onthe device are shown as two separate pieces, other examples such as thepin and the through hole integrated into a single molded element of thedevice is possible.

The locking sleeve, the retaining ring, and the connector may utilizeone or multiple layers. The locking sleeve, the retaining ring, and theconnector may be made of aluminum, stainless steel, plastic, polymer,thermoplastic, or of any similar material.

Although the system 10 shown as two assemblies 30, 40 separately coupledto the fluid dispensing devices, it should be understood that numerousvariations to the configuration of the system are possible. Forinstance, the connector 36 may be formed as part of or integrated intoone of the connecting members 30, 40. In another example, at least oneof the connecting members 30, 40 may be formed as part of or integratedinto the fluid dispending device. Since the system 10 is relativelysimple in construction and easy to manufacture, manufacturing cost isreduced and reliability is enhanced. More details about the formation ofthe system are described in the present disclosure.

In many of these embodiments, a system 1100 includes a first assembly1102 and a second assembly 1160. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7C, thefirst assembly 1102 includes a connector 1104 having a connector end1106 for receiving a nozzle, for instance. The connector 1104 furtherincludes an axial passageway 1106 c and flanges 1106 a, 1106 b formed onan outer peripheral wall 1106 d. The first assembly 1102 furtherincludes a locking member 1108 having a slot or slit 1110 on aperipheral wall 1112 and an anti-locking feature.

A through hole 1116 is formed on one end of the peripheral wall 1112 anda distal edge 1118 connected to the through hole 1116 via the peripheralwall 1112 is formed on the opposite end of the through hole 1116. Aretaining ring 1114 is disposed between the flange 1106 a of theconnector 1104 and the peripheral wall 1112 of the locking member 1108to retain the connector 1104 in a free rotating position. The secondflange 1106 b of the connector 1104 engages an inner wall of the lockingmember 1108 further retains the connector 1104 in the free rotatingposition. The second flange 1106 also provides abutment stop to theconnector 1104 from pulling out of the locking member 1108.

The second assembly 1160 includes a first housing 1162 having an annularchamber 1180, an outer peripheral wall 1182, and two receiving ends1184, 1186 opposed to each other. The first housing 1162 furtherincludes an annular biasing element groove 1188 adjacent to thereceiving end 1184 for receiving a biasing element 1168. An inner groove1190 of the first housing is formed by any known techniques to held asecond housing 1164 in place after the biasing element 1168, a plug1170, a sealing ring 1172, a spacer 1174, and a lip seal 1176,collectively encapsulated within the annular chamber 1180 of the firsthousing 1162.

The receiving end 1184 is dimensioned to be substantially the same asthe size of a cylindrical end 1220 of a connector 1166. A flange 1222extends integrally and outwardly from an outer surface 1224 and acts asan abutment stop for the connector 1166. The spacer 1174 and the sealingring 1172 having inner cylindrical walls 1192, 1200 to snugly receivethe plug 1170. The spacer 1174 includes two ends 1194, 1196 and an outercylindrical wall 1198. The sealing ring 1172 also includes two ends1202, 1204 and an outer cylindrical wall 1206. As shown in FIG. 7C, thespacer engages the annular chamber 1180 of the first housing 1162 isheld in place by the sealing ring 1172 and the lip seal 1176, whereinthe distal ends 1196, 1202 of the spacer 1174 and the sealing ring 1172abut to each other, and the distal end 1194 of the spacer 1174 and thelip seal 1196 abut to each other.

The plug 1170 includes an axial passageway 1208, a plurality of openings1210, 1212 communicatively coupled the axial passageway 1208 to an outersurface 1214 to allow fluid to flow through without restriction. Aplurality of openings 1211 having a dimension smaller than a dimensionof the openings 1210, 1212 are provided, therefore to allow fluid toflow behind the lip seal to enhance shutoff. The plug 1170 furtherincludes a flange 1216 extends outwardly from the outer surface 1214 andengages biasing element 1168. The flange 1216 serves as an abutment stopfor the biasing element 1168 into the spacer 1174. The biasing element1168, for example, is a spring and is provided to center the plug 1170once the plug 1170 engages the spring. The plug 1170 is placed into thespacer 1174 and permits the plug 1170 to slide freely within the spacer1174. The plug 1170 and the spacer 1174 further effect a fluid tightmatting surface to the sealing ring 1172. In this manner, the biasingelement, the spring as illustrated, provides positive no-flow shut offforce in closed position and permits adequate fluid flow to the plug1170 in open position. When the plug 1170 is in a closed position, thesealing ring 1172 prevents fluid passage through the plug 1170. A distalend 1218 adjacent to the opening 1212 is formed and engages a transversereceiving end 1106 e of the connector 1104. In one embodiment, amagnetic member to hold the assemblies together. An optional sensor maybe integrated into the system to shut off the system in closed position.

The second housing 1164 includes an inner surface 1228 that is sized tobe substantially the same or greater than the size of the outerperipheral wall 1106 d of the connector 1104. The second housing 1164also includes an O-ring groove 1230 on the inner surface 1228 forcarrying the O-ring 1178. In the manner, the O-ring 1178 not onlyprovides an insertion seal between the spacer connector 1104 and thesecond housing 1164, the O-ring 1178 also provides retraction sealbetween the connector 1104 and the second housing 1164. A lip sealgroove 1232 serves to receive the lip seal 1176 is also formed on theinner surface 1228 and opposed to the O-ring groove 1230. The lip seal1176 provides a fluid tight seal between the spacer 1174 and the secondhousing 1164 so as to effect an auxiliary sealing force between fluidpassage and the connector 1104. In another embodiment, the secondhousing 1164 may be completely covered by the locking member 1108. Inyet another embodiment, the locking member 1108 and the second housing1164 may be integrated into a single system. For example, the lockingmember and the second housing are molded as a single unit or a coatingmaterial may be applied to an internal wall of the locking member. Yetin further embodiment, the locking member 1108 may have a lengthextended outwardly to accommodate the connector end 1106 and to avoidinterference to the seal surface of the connector end 1106.

The second housing 1164 further includes an integral surface 1234 formating with the distal edge 1118 and the receiving end 1186 of thelocking member 1108 and the first housing 1162. The locking member 1108converts rotational motion to linear motion in order to move theconnector 1104. Once the internal components are held in place withinthe assembly 1102, 1160, the locking ring provides protection for thecomponents. The locking member 1108 further provides interface geometryto the system 1100. As the locking ring disengages the assemblies 1102,1160, the locking member 1108 is able to discharge or release any inletpressure build therein, thereby the system significantly reduces oreliminates the spraying of fluid when connecting or disconnecting thepressurized fluid dispensing device.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate another embodiment of a quick connect/disconnectsystem 1100. FIGS. 8A-8C are similar in construction to the system 1100in FIGS. 7A-7C and like elements are identified with a like referenceconvention. In this embodiment, a guide groove or slit 1110′ is formedon the outer surface 1238 of the second housing 1164′ by any knowntechnique. A locking pin 1238′ mates with the guide groove 1110′ isprovided on an inner surface 1119 of the locking member 1108′.

To engage the first assembly 1102 to the second assembly 1160, simplyaligns the locking pin 1238′ at an entryway of the guide groove 1110′and follows the path of the guide groove 1110′ until the pin 1238′reaches the end of the path. Once it is in a locked position, thelocking member 1108′ and the first housing 1162′ abut to each other andheld the internal components in place. In this manner, the secondhousing 1164′ is contained in the locking member 1108′.

As shown in FIG. 8C, the first housing 1162′ has an elongated portion1240 extended from the receiving end 1186′ to receive the distal end1118 of the locking member 1108′. The locking member 1108′ and the firsthousing 1162′ thereby provide a retention feature for the second housing1164′. The system 1100 further includes a second retaining ring 1242 andthe second retaining ring 1242 is carried in a recess of the secondhousing 1164 by any known techniques. In one example, the secondretaining ring 1242 may be pressed fitted into the recess of the secondhousing 1164 as a single device. To simply the application, an O-ring1176′ may be provided, instead of a lip seal 1176, to provide a fluidtight seal between the spacer 1174 and the second body 1164. The lockingstructure may be integrated into the system, such as the firs housing,second housing, or the locking member.

FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate another embodiment of a quick connect/disconnectsystem 1100. FIGS. 9A-9C are similar in construction to the system 1100in FIGS. 8A-8C and like elements are identified with a like referenceconvention. In this embodiment, the system 1100 includes an expandedvolume within the assemblies 1102, 1160 and allows fluid to flowthrough. It also reduces fluid squirt due to high fluid pressure.

FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of a quick connect/disconnectsystem 1100. FIG. 10 is similar in construction to the system 1100 inFIG. 8C and like elements are identified with a like referenceconvention. As illustrated, the system 1100 has an internal locking pin1236′ formed therein and a slit 1110′ to receive the locking pin 1236′.A lip seal 1176′ is provided with at least two elastic retaining membersextending outwardly from an inner wall. In other embodiment, the lipseal 1176′ may be pressed fitted into the second housing. As theconnector 1106 inserts into the assembly 1102, the two elastic retainingmembers engage the outer peripheral wall 1106 d of the connector 1104,thereby provide a fluid tight seal to the spacer 1174 and the secondhousing 1164. An optional fastening member, such as nut 1250 may becoupled to the connector 1166 by any attachment methods. The fasteningmember 1250 and the connector 1166 may be integrated into a singleassembly.

The second housing 1164′ includes a lip terminated at a distal end andextends outwardly from the outer surface 1238. A recess is formed on theinner wall 1191 of the firs housing 1162 and configured to receive thelip of the second housing 1164′. The second housing 1164′ also includesan inner cylinder wall 1228 that is sized to be substantially conformedto the outer wall 1106 d of the connector 1104.

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate another embodiment of a quickconnect/disconnect system 1100. FIGS. 11A-11C are similar inconstruction to the system 1100 in FIGS. 8A-8C and like elements areidentified with a like reference convention. At least one retainingmember, a plurality of O-ring 1178′, 1178″, 1178′″ as illustrated, isprovided to serve several purposes. The first O-ring 1178′ disposedwithin the recess of the second housing 1164 provides insertion sealbetween the connector 1104 and the second housing 1164. The secondO-ring 1178″ disposed and surround a second recess of the second housing1164 adjacent to the spacer 1174 further provides insertion seal betweenthe connector 1104 and the second housing 1164. The third O-ring 1178′″carried in a recess of the second housing 1164 further provides a fluidtight seal between the spacer 1174 and the second body 1164. Theretaining member 1178″″ may be integrated into the lip seal or thespacer. A portion of the retaining member 1178″″ extends outwardly toseal the lip seal and the spacer.

FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate another embodiment of a quickconnect/disconnect system 1100. FIGS. 12A-12C are similar inconstruction to the system 1100 in the previous figures and likeelements are identified with a like reference convention. As depicted inFIG. 12C, the second housing 1164′ has an elongated portion 1240′extended from a receiving end and engages the outer cylindrical wall1198 of the spacer 1174, thereby provides a retention feature for thespacer 1164. The lip seal 1176 is encapsulated into the spacer. Inanother embodiment, the lip seal is encapsulated into the locking member1108.

FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate another embodiment of a quickconnect/disconnect system 1100. FIGS. 13A-13C are similar inconstruction to the system 1100 in the previous figures and likeelements are identified with a like reference convention. With referenceto FIGS. 13A and 13B, a quick connect/disconnect system 1100 includes amale connecting member 1118 and a shutoff plunger 1104 abuts to eachother. A housing 1102 surrounds at least one of the male connectingmember 1118 and the shutoff plunger 1104. The housing 1102 and the maleconnecting member 1118 can be stainless steel or other known materialsthat are leak free.

A locking member 1110 is coupled to at least one of the male connectingmember 1118 and the shutoff plunger 1108. As shown in FIG. 13B, thelocking member 1110 is coupled to an inner wall of the housing 1102. Insome cases, a second housing may be provided to couple with the firsthousing 1102 and to provide position retention features for one of thecomponents 1110, 1102, and such examples are discussed in greater detailherein.

The quick connect/disconnect system further includes a lip seal 1176, aspacer 1106, a biasing element 1120, and a shutoff seal 1108,collectively encapsulated within the housing 1102. The lip seal 1114 isconfigured to join the spacer 1106 to an inner connecting wall of thelocking member 1110. The spacer 1106

The locking member 1110, the shutoff plunger 1104, the lip seal 1114,the spacer 1106, the shutoff seal 1108 can be thermoplastic polymer,thermosetting polymer, or any suitable plastic material such aspolyethylene, polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride(PVC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), special polyethyleneterephthalate (SPET), alternative polyethylene terephthalate (APET).

Plug slides freely within the spacer. Plug provides a fluid-tightmatting surface to the seal. Plug centers the spring to itself. Plugprovides a fluid-passage to pressurize the lip seal.

Spacer provides compression to the seal. Spacer centers and supports thelip seal. Spacer provides a journal for the plug. Spacer provides awater-passage to the lip seal.

Seal prevents fluid passage when the plug is in the closed position.Seal prevents leakage between first body and second body.

First body provides a positive retention feature for second body. Firstbody provides a position (assembly) stop for second body. First bodyprovides a fluid-tight seal for the seal. First body provides acentering feature for the spring. First body provides a leak-freeinterface to the hose. First body provides an adequate grip surface.First body provides adequate protection for internal components.

Locking ring converts rotational motion to linear motion to move theconnector end. Locking ring provides locking mechanism for the assembly.Locking ring provides adequate protection for internal components.Locking ring provides a grip surface. Locking ring provides adequateinterface geometry to the connector end. Locking ring provides (male)mechanism advantage to overcome inlet pressure.

Snap ring retains the locking to the connector end. Snap ring allows forfree rotation of the locking ring in relation to the connector end.

Lip seal provides a fluid-tight seal between the spacer and the secondbody. Lip seal provides a fluid-tight seal between the spacer and theconnector end. Lip seal pressurized to provide auxiliary sealing forcebetween fluid passage and connector end. Lip seal provides a wiper forthe connector end surface.

O-ring provides insertion seal between the connector end and the secondbody. O-ring provides retraction seal between the connector end and thesecond body. O-ring provides a secondary seal between the connector endand the second body. O-ring provides a secondary wiper for the connectorend surface.

Male hose coupling positively engages the hose end product. Male hosecoupling provides geometry adequate to retain the snap ring. Male hosecoupling provides adequate clearance geometry for the locking ring. Malehose coupling provides adequate sealing surface for O-ring and the lipseal. Male hose coupling provides connect engagement surface at the pluginterface.

Spring provides positive no-flow shut-off force. Spring centers theplug. Spring provides adequate fluid flow to the plug.

Second body provides adequate secondary force to the seal. Second bodyprovides geometry adequate to connect to first body. Second bodyprovides an adequate journal for the spacer. Second body provides anadequate seal for the spacer. Second body provides an adequate journalfor the connector end. Second body provides a water-tight seal surfacefor O-ring. Second body provides an adequate journal for the lockingring. Second body provides (female) mechanism advantage to overcomeinlet pressure.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a quickconnect/disconnect system 1300. The system 1300 includes a first body1302 disposed at a first end of the system 1300 and includes an internalchannel 1304 which extends from one end of the first body 1302 toanother end of the first body 1302 for a fluid, such as water, to passtherethrough. The first body 1302 includes a shoulder 1306 upon which aspring 1308 can be disposed. A shuttle 1310 is disposed within thechannel of the first body 1302 and is configured for sliding movementalong a longitudinal axis 1312 which extends longitudinally through thesystem 1300. The shuttle 1310 includes a flange 1312 extending laterallyfrom the longitudinal axis 1312 which provides a contacting surface forthe spring 1308.

A seal assembly 1320 is disposed about an outer surface of the shuttle1310 and is formed of an elastomeric material which is configured toprovide seal between an interior surface of the first body 1302 and anexterior surface of the shuttle 1310. The shuttle 1310 and the sealassembly 1320 are configured to provide a flow of fluid through a pathdefined by one or more apertures 1322, defined in the shuttle 1310, andan angled surface 1324 defined by the seal assembly 1320. As can be seenin FIG. 15, the angled surface 1324 directs a fluid flow either into oraway from the apertures 1322 of the shuttle 1310.

A second body 1340 is partially disposed within the channel 1304 of thefirst body 1302 and includes threads 1342 to threadingly engage threads1344 of the first body. Engagement of the threads 1342 with the threads1344 holds the seal assembly 1320 at a predetermined position within thechannel 1304 at least partly defined by a shoulder 1346 of the firstbody 1302. An O-ring 1348, disposed within a channel defined in the sealassembly 1320, provides a fluidtight seal between the second body 1340and the seal assembly 1320.

A seal 1350 is disposed at an end of the seal assembly 1320 opposite theend at which the angled surface 1324 is located. The seal 1350 defines achannel in which a male coupling 1352 is disposed. The male coupling1352 includes a first portion 1354 which is generally cylindrical anddefines an interior channel disposed along the longitudinal axis 1312. Aterminating end 1356 of the first portion 1354 abuts a terminating end1358 of the shuttle 1312. The seal 1350 encircles the first portion 1354and includes a projection portion 1360 which projects into the channeldefined by the seal 1350 and which contacts an external surface of thefirst portion 1354. The male coupling 1352 includes a second portion1368 having a neck portion 1370 disposed between the first portion 1354and a threaded portion 1372 which defines a channel having an interiordiameter larger than the interior diameter of the first portion 1354.Threads 1374 are defined on an exterior surface of the threaded portion1372. The first portion 1354 is disposed adjacent to a spacer 1351 whichis substantially cylindrical and which defines a channel through whichthe first portion 1354 is inserted. The spacer 1351 at one end abuts theseal 1350 and at a second end contacts an O-ring 1353 which is disposedbetween an end of the spacer and an internally projecting flange 1355 ofthe second body 1340. A retaining ring assembly 1380 includes a firstpart 1382 surrounding a second part 1384. The second part 1384 includesa projection which engages a groove 1386 defined in an external surfaceof the second body 1340.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the first body 1302 of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 and includes a first and secondplan view, first and second end views and a detailed view of threads ofthe second body. The first body 1302 includes a configured or undulatingsurface 1400 located on an end portion 1402 of the first body. The endportion 1402 can be inserted into a hose, for instance, and contact ofthe configured surface engages an interior surface of the hose to keepthe end portion 1402 fixed to the hose.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the second body 1340 of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including a first and second planview, first and second end views and a detailed view of threads of thesecond body.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the shuttle 1310 of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including a plan view of an end andfirst and second end views.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the spacer 1351 of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including an end view and detailviews of a portion of the spacer.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the seal assembly 1320 of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including first and second endviews. In one embodiment, a seal member such as an overmolded seal or anO ring is provided. Of course, other member with sealing capability ispossible.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the second part 1384 of the lockingring assembly 1380 of the quick connect/disconnect system of FIG. 15including a first and a second end view and a detail view of the firstpart of the locking ring assembly.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the male coupling 1352 of the quickconnect/disconnect system of FIG. 15 including an end view and a detailview of the male coupling.

As shown in FIG. 23, a fluid system 100 includes a nozzle 102, a firstquick connect/disconnect system, shown as a first coupler system 104, asecond quick connect/disconnect system, shown as a second coupler system106, and a sillcock 108. A fluid conductor or fluid conduit, shown as ahose 110, connects the first coupler system 104 to the second couplersystem 106.

The nozzle 102 is an exemplary fluid conduit or fluid device thatincludes a body 116, a valve 118, and a shank 120. The valve 118 isshown in a closed position that prevents fluid flow through a tip 122 ofthe nozzle 102. The valve 118 is movable to an open position in responseto movement of a handle 124 of the nozzle 102. The shank 120 is fixedlyconnected to a receiving end of the body 116 and defines a plurality ofinternal threads 126. Other forms of non-threaded ends for receiving theshank 120 are possible. The nozzle 102, which is also referred to hereinas a fluid conductor, is representative of any fluid device, such asfluid sprinklers, pneumatic devices, wands, hydraulic devices, faucets,timers, vessels, tanks, accessories, wands, wheel reels, and any otherfluid device as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.

In FIG. 23, the coupler system 104 is connected to the nozzle 102 and tothe hose 110. The coupler system 104 includes a male connector 132 and afemale connector 134. The male connector 132 is connected to the nozzle102 and is shown as being mated (connected) to the female connector 134.In another embodiment, the fluid device 102 is configured to connect tothe female connector 134.

With reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, the male connector 132 includes abody portion 136 and a rotating ring assembly 138. The body portion 136includes a threaded coupling portion 140, a shoulder 142, a ring groove144 (FIG. 25), and a tube coupling portion 146. The threaded couplingportion 140 is located at an end portion 148 of the body portion 136.The threaded coupling portion 140 defines a plurality of externalthreads 150 that are configured to engage, for example, the internalthreads 126 of the shank 120. In another embodiment, the threadedcoupling portion 140 includes a plurality of internal threads that areconfigured to engage, for example, a fluid device with external threads.In yet another embodiment, depending on the type of application orcommonly adopted practice in the market/country, the coupling portion140 does not require threaded features. For example, in Great Britain,the coupling portion 140 of the connector 132 is connected to the fluidsystem or vessel using a compression fitting method. Of course, otherforms of fittings are possible. The external threads 150 extendapproximately from the end portion 148 to the shoulder 142. In anotherembodiment, the external threads 150 do not extend all the way to theshoulder 142 from the end portion 148, assuming the shoulder is or isnot designed into the application. As illustrated, the external threads150 are sized to correspond to national hose thread; however, in otherembodiments the external threads are any size, shape, and configurationas desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The shoulder 142 is located between the threaded coupling portion 140and the ring groove 144. As shown in FIG. 26, the shoulder 142 issubstantially circular and includes a first wrench flat 152 and anopposite second wrench flat 154. The wrench flats 152, 154 areconfigured to receive a tool (not shown), such as a wrench or pliers,for rotating the body portion 136 or for fixing the position bodyportion. In another embodiment, the shoulder 142 is circular and doesnot include the wrench flats 152, 154.

With reference again to FIG. 25, the body portion 136 further defines ajournal 156 located between the ring groove 144 and the shoulder 142.The journal 156 is a substantially circular portion of the body portion136.

The ring groove 144 is located between the shoulder 142 and the tubecoupling portion 146 and between the journal 156 and the tube couplingportion. The ring groove 144 is formed completely around the bodyportion 136.

The tube coupling portion 146 is an elongated cylinder that defines anaxial center 208, which also referred to herein as a component axis. Thetube coupling portion 146 is located at an opposite end portion 160 ofthe body portion 136 from the threaded coupling portion 140. The tubecoupling portion 146 is shaped as a generally cylindrical tube. The tubecoupling portion 146 defines an inside diameter 162 and an outsidediameter 164. The diameters 162, 164 are approximately constant along alength 166 of the tube coupling portion 146, and an outer surface 168 ofthe tube coupling portion 146 is substantially free from abrasions orother irregularities. In another embodiment, instead of being generallycylindrical, the tube coupling portion 146 defines a cross section thatis elliptical, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal,or any other shape as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.Similar geometry may be used or applied in any elements of the system100 as described herein, including elements in the system as depicted inFIG. 1 and the alternative embodiments such as FIG. 15. Furthermore, asshown in FIG. 25, the end portion 160 is substantially perpendicular tothe axial center 208 of the male connector 132. In another embodiment,the end portion 160 defines an irregular surface, an angled surface, anotched surface, a curved surface, a keyed surface, or any other surfaceconfiguration as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art. Also, inanother embodiment a debris barrier or an environmental barrier (notshown) is located in the tube coupling portion 146 and is configured tofilter fluid passing therethrough. The tube coupling portion 146, in oneembodiment, is formed entirely from an elastomeric material. In someembodiments, the tube coupling portion 146 includes a mix of elastomericmaterial and other materials or engineered materials.

The body portion 136 defines a fluid channel 172 extending from the endportion 148 to the opposite end portion 160. The fluid channel 172includes a wide region 174, a narrow region 176, and a funnel region178. The wide region 174 extends through the threaded coupling portion140. The narrow region 176 extends through the tube coupling portion146. The funnel region 178 fluidly couples the wide region 174 to thenarrow region 176 and transitions in size accordingly. The body portion136 is formed from aluminum, die cast aluminum, stainless steel, zincdie cast, brass, iron, plated steel, titanium, platinum, polypropylene,thermoplastic, or any other material desired by those of ordinary skillin the art that is suitable for the type of fluid selected to passthrough the fluid channel 172. Additionally, in some embodiments thebody portion 136 is one or more of anodized, plated, powder coated,painted, hardened, and/or coated with Teflon®. The body portion 136 ismade according to a process that includes machining, forging, and/orengineering.

As shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the rotating ring assembly 138 includes acoupling ring 184, an overmolded portion 186, a lock ring 188, and amating feature 190 (FIG. 25). The coupling ring 184 is substantiallycylindrical and extends about the end portion 160 of the body portion.The coupling ring 184 is supported by the body portion 136 at a firstlocation 192 along the component axis 208.

The coupling ring 184 defines a cavity 194 and a seat structure 196(FIG. 25). The coupling ring 184 extends beyond the tube couplingportion 146, such that the tube coupling portion is positionedcompletely within the cavity 194 to prevent damage to the tube couplingportion. The coupling ring 184 defines the component axis 208. Thecoupling ring 184 is formed from aluminum, die cast aluminum, stainlesssteel, zinc die cast, brass, iron, plated steel, titanium, platinum,polypropylene, thermoplastic or any other material as desired by thoseof ordinary skill in the art. Additionally, in some embodiments thecoupling ring 184 is one or more of anodized, plated, powder coated,painted, hardened, and/or coated with Teflon®. The coupling ring 184 ismade according to a process that includes machining, forging, and/orengineering.

The seat structure 196 defines an approximately circular seat opening198 (FIG. 3) through which the body portion 136 is configured to extendinto the cavity 194. In particular, the seat structure 196 is positionedagainst the shoulder 142 and the journal 156, and is configured forcontinuous rotation about the journal.

The overmolded portion 186 is positioned around the coupling ring 184.The overmolded portion 186 is configured to be gripped by a user. In anexemplary embodiment, the overmolded portion 186 is formed fromSantoprene, another thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV), or any otherelastomer material, as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art. Inanother embodiment, the male connector 132 does not include theovermolded portion 186 and the coupling ring 184 is knurled or otherwisetextured.

The lock ring 188 is located in the ring groove 144 and is configured torotatably connect the coupling ring 184 to the body portion 136. Inparticular, the lock ring 188 is configured to trap the seat structure196 between the shoulder 142 and the lock ring. The lock ring 188prevents movement of the coupling ring 184 toward the tube couplingportion 146, and the shoulder 142 prevents movement of the coupling ringtoward the threaded coupling portion 140. The lock ring 188 is formedfrom synthetic rubber such as ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EDPM),nitrile rubber (Buna-N), metal, silicon or any other suitable materialas desired by those of ordinary skill in the art. Additionally, in someembodiments, the lock ring 188 is optionally coated with a low frictionmaterial, such as Teflon®. The lock ring 188 is resistant to heat,ozone, and hot and cold climates.

With reference to FIGS. 25 and 27, the mating feature 190 is formed onan internal surface 200 of the coupling ring 184. The mating feature 190is spaced apart from the location 192 in a direction away from thethreaded coupling portion 140 by a distance 201. The mating feature 190includes a plurality of protuberances, provided as pins 202, inside thecoupling ring. The mating feature 190 can be in other forms such asmonolithic or added components to the surface. In yet anotherembodiment, the surface 200 may be altered or modified to form themating feature 190. The pins 202 extend through passages 204 (FIG. 25)formed in the coupling ring 184 and are fixedly connected to thecoupling ring. The overmolded portion 186 covers one end of the pins202. In another embodiment, the pins 202 extend from the coupling ring184 without extending through passages 204 formed in the coupling ring;accordingly, the pins and the coupling ring are an integrally formedmonolithic part. In one embodiment, each pin 202 is referred to as aseparate mating feature 190 of the connector 132. As illustrated in FIG.23, the pins 202 are formed on the male connector while the groove 224is formed on the female connector, however the fitting methods anddesigns of the groove 224 and the pins 202 can be reversed. For example,the groove 224 is formed on the male connector instead. Similarly, thefitting methods and designs can also be incorporated in the system asshown in FIG. 21.

The pins 202 are formed from half hard brass, aluminum, stainless steel,or any other suitable material, as desired by those of ordinary skill inthe art. The pins 202 have a generally rounded shape, but in otherembodiments have any shape as desired by those of ordinary skill in theart. The mating feature 190 includes at least one of the pins 202depending on the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 27, the mating feature 190 includes three of the pins202 equally spaced apart by approximately one hundred twenty degrees.The pins 202 extend toward a center axis 208 of the male connector 132.In one embodiment, the pins 202 extend from the coupling ring 184 for adistance of approximately three millimeters. The pins 202 are coplanaras shown by the plane 214 that extends through each pin 202. Dependingon the function application, the dimension of the pins 202 can beconfigured to predetermined depths.

As shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the female connector 134 is generallycylindrical and includes a grooved coupling portion 216 at a first endportion 218 of the connector 134 and a barbed coupling portion 220 at anopposite end portion 222 of the connector 134. The grooved couplingportion 216 includes an external surface 226 having a mating feature 228that is configured to couple to the pins 202 of the mating feature 190.The grooved coupling portion 216 defines at least as many grooves 224 asthe number of pins 202 defined by the mating feature 190, three in theexemplary embodiment. In one embodiment, each groove 224 is referred toas a separate mating feature 228 of the female connector 134.

The helically shaped grooves 224 extend partially around the exteriorsurface 226 of the grooved coupling portion 216. The grooved couplingportion 216 includes at least one of the grooves 224 depending on theembodiment. Also, in another embodiment, the grooves 224 are generally“L” shaped, “J” shaped, or any other shape as desired by those ofordinary skill in the art. In yet another embodiment, the grooves 224are formed on an internal surface female connector 134.

As shown in FIG. 30, one of the grooves 224 is shown in a flattened viewwith a pin 202 shown in four different positions. The groove 224 extendsfrom an entry region 230 at a proximal location 231, through a slideregion 232, and to a seated region 234 at a distal location 233. Theentry region 230 is formed at the end portion 218 of the groovedcoupling portion 216. The entry region 230 defines a width 236 that isapproximately 1.5 to 2.0 times as wide as the pins 202. Accordingly, theentry region 230 is configured to simplify aligning the pins 202therewith.

The entry region 230 includes an angled wall 240 that angled withrespect to the end portion 218 by approximately forty-five degrees. Inanother embodiment, the angled wall 240 may be configured to any desiredangle. Depending on the function or application, the grooved couplingportion 216 does not require the angled wall 240. The angled wall 240distinguishes the shape of the groove 224 from the shape of a screwthread as identified by the dashed lines 242.

The slide region 232 defines a height (pitch) 244 that is approximatelyequal to a diameter 246 of the pins 202. Accordingly, the slide region232 is configured to enable the pins 202 to slide either towards or awayfrom the seated region 234 in response to rotation of the coupling ring184 relative to the female connector 134. The slide region 232 extendsaway from the end portion 218 toward the opposite end portion 222 (FIG.29). The slide region 232 is formed at an angle α of approximatelytwenty-five degrees from the end portion 218. When the pins 202 arepositioned in the entry regions 230 or the slide regions 232 the maleconnector 132 is engaged with the female connector 134. In anotherembodiment, the slide region 232 may be configured to any desired angle.

The seated region 234 extends from the slide region 232 away from theend portion 218 toward the distal location 233, and is configured toterminate the slide region 232. The seated region 234 is configured toreceive/to seat the pins 202 when the male connector 132 is connected tothe female connector 134. A width 250 of the seated region 234 isapproximately equal to the diameter 246 of the pins 202. When the pins202 are positioned in the seated regions 234 the male connector 132 ismated with the female connector 134. The grooves 224 define a distancebetween the end portion 218 and a bottom 254 of the seated region 234,which is referred to as a travel distance 256. The travel distance 256is a maximum axial distance along the center axis 286 that the pins 202travel during engagement and mating of the male connector 132 to thefemale connector 134. The distance 201 is at least as large as thetravel distance 256.

The seated region 234 includes a knee region 258 and a locking face 260.The knee region 258 is located adjacent to the slide region 232 and is arounded surface against which the pin 202 is configured to move. Thelocking face 260 is configured to contact the pin 202 when the pin isseated in the seated region 234. The locking face 260 defines a height262 that is at least approximately a third of the diameter 246 of thepin. In another embodiment, the height 262 may be configured to conformto the mating feature 190. The locking face 260 is located an angle ofapproximately one hundred degrees from the end portion 218. In anotherembodiment, the locking face 260 is located at angle betweenapproximately ninety to one hundred ten degrees. In another embodiment,the locking face 260 may be configured to any desired angle.

With reference again to FIGS. 28 and 29, the barbed coupling portion 220includes a barbed mating feature 266 defining a plurality of barbs 268and a bore 270. The barbs 268 are frustoconical shaped surfaces that areconfigured for placement within a fluid conductor, such as the hose 110(as shown in FIG. 23). In another embodiment, any protrusion orindentation to form the coupling portion 220 is possible. Whenpositioned in the hose 110, the barbs 268 grip the hose to preventseparation of the hose from the barbed coupling portion 220. In anotherembodiment, instead of the barbed coupling portion 220 the femaleconnector 134 includes a deformable shank (not shown) or anotherconnector configured to make a fluid tight connection with the hose 110,as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.

As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, the female connector 134 includes a leftbody portion 274, an internal assembly 276 (FIG. 31), and a right bodyportion 278. The left body portion 274 is connected to the right bodyportion 278. The left body portion 274 includes the grooved couplingportion 216 and defines a coupling channel 282 (FIG. 32) and a pluralityof external threads 284 (FIG. 31). The coupling channel 282, which isalso referred to herein as a fluid channel, extends completely throughthe left body portion 274 from the end portion 218 to the externalthreads 284. The coupling channel 282 is centered about an axial center286 of the female connector 134. The coupling channel 282 is configuredto receive the tube coupling portion 146.

The coupling channel 282 includes a first diameter portion 283 and asecond diameter portion 285. The first diameter portion 283 extends fromthe end portion 218 to the second diameter portion 285. The firstdiameter portion 283 defines a maximum diameter 287. The second diameterportion 285 extends from the first diameter portion 283 toward barbedcoupling portion 220. The second diameter portion 285 defines anothermaximum diameter 289. The maximum diameter 289 defined by the seconddiameter portion 285 is larger than the maximum diameter 287 defined bythe first diameter portion 283. Additionally, the second diameterportion 285 is sized to receive a fluid passing structure, such as thetube coupling portion 146, of a body, such as the body portion 136,coupled to the left body portion 274.

The left body portion 274 is formed from aluminum. In anotherembodiment, the left body portion 274 is formed from stainless steel,brass, thermoplastic, or any other material as desired by those ofordinary skill in the art. In yet another embodiment, the groovedcoupling portion 216 is formed from a metal or a metal alloy and therest of the left body portion 274 is formed from another material, suchas thermoplastic or any other material as desired by those of ordinaryskill in the art.

The left body portion 274, including the exterior 226 and the groovedcoupling portion 216, is anodized to make the grooves 224 resistant towear from the pins 202. In one particular embodiment, the groovedcoupling portion 216, including the knee region 258, is coated with aType III hard coat anodized coating. In another embodiment, the leftbody portion 274 is hardened according to any other process as desiredby those of ordinary skill in the art. Also in another embodiment, theleft body portion 274 is at least one of painted, plated, hardened, andpowder coated.

The right body portion 278 defines a plurality of internal threads 288and the barbed coupling portion 220 and includes an overmolded portion290. The internal threads 288 are configured to mesh with the externalthreads 284 of the left body portion 274 to connect the left bodyportion to the right body portion 278 and establish a fluid tight andleak free seal between the left body portion and the right body portion.In another embodiment, the threads 284 of the left body portion 274 areformed on an inner wall 328 of the left body portion 274 and incommunication with the coupling channel 282 and the threads 288 areformed on an outer wall 292 of the right body portion 278. Other fittingmethods such as a pressed fitting, a tapered fitting, a shrink fitting,a welded fitting, a snap fitting, or the like, or combination thereofare possible. In at least one embodiment, thread locker, thread sealer,epoxy, adhesive, or the like such as Loctite® 267 is applied to thethreads 284, 288 to further establish a fluid tight and leak free sealbetween the left body portion and the right body portion. In anotherembodiment, any sealant desired by those of ordinary skill in the art isapplied to the threads 284, 288. In some embodiments, the right bodyportion 278 is at least one of anodized, painted, plated, hardened, andpowder coated.

The overmolded portion 290 is formed on the right body portion 278 andis configured to be gripped by a user. The overmolded portion 290 isformed from an elastomeric material, a rigid coating, or the like asdesired by those of ordinary skill in the art. Thermoplasticvulcanizates (TPV) is one example of the elastomeric material. Inanother embodiment, the female connector 134 does not include theovermolded portion 290 and the right body portion 278 is knurled orotherwise textured.

The right body portion 278 further defines a fluid channel 294 and ashoulder 296. The fluid channel 294 extends through the right bodyportion 278 from the internal threads 288 to the barbed coupling portion220. The fluid channel 294 is centered about the axial center 286 of theconnector 134. The shoulder 296 extends about the fluid channel 294.

As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, the internal assembly 276 (FIG. 31)includes an o-ring seal 300, a spacer structure 302, a lip seal member304, an o-ring seal 306, a shuttle guide structure 308, a shuttle 310,and a biasing member 312. The o-ring seal 300 is a resilient seal memberlocated in the first diameter portion 283 of the coupling channel 282and configured to extend about the coupling channel. The o-ring seal 300defines an inner diameter 316 that is slightly less than the outerdiameter 164 (FIG. 25) of the tube coupling portion 146 and isconfigured to stretch to enable the tube coupling portion to passtherethrough. The o-ring seal 300 is located between a shoulder 318 ofthe left body portion 274 and the spacer structure 302.

The spacer structure 302 is located in the coupling channel 282 and isconfigured to extend about the coupling channel. The spacer structure302 defines an inner diameter 320 that is slightly larger than the outerdiameter 164 of the tube coupling portion 146 and is configured toenable the tube coupling portion to pass therethrough. The innerdiameter 320 is slightly larger than the inner diameter 316 of theo-ring seal 300. The spacer structure 302 simplifies manufacturing ofthe left body portion 274 by eliminating a machining step of cutting agroove for the o-ring seal 300.

The lip seal member 304, also referred to herein as a lip seal or aresilient seal member, is located in the second diameter portion 285 ofthe coupling channel 282 between the spacer structure 302 and theshuttle guide structure 308 and is configured to extend about thecoupling channel. The lip seal 304 defines a “U” shaped cross sectionand includes an outer seal 322 and an inner seal 324. The outer seal 322abuts the inner wall 328 defining the second diameter portion 285. Theouter seal 322 includes a rigid ring provided as a ring member 326located therein. The ring member 326 is rigid and resists deformation asthe lip seal 304 is press fit into the left body portion 274. When thelip seal 304 is press-fit into the left body portion 274 the lip sealabuts the spacer structure 302, and the outer seal 322 is prevented frommoving in the axial direction along the axial center 286. Accordingly,the fixed location of the lip seal 304 prevents movement of the spacerstructure 302. In some embodiments, instead of being press fit into theleft body portion 274, the outer seal 322 is connected to the left bodyportion with any form of attachment such as an adhesive.

The inner seal 324 of the lip seal 304 is radially spaced apart from theouter seal 322 and is resiliently movable relative to the outer seal322. The inner seal 324 includes a beveled portion 330 that defines acircular passage 332 having a diameter 334. The diameter 334 is slightlyless than the outside diameter 164 of the tube coupling portion 146.Accordingly, the inner seal 324 is configured to stretch slightly inresponse to the tube coupling portion 146 extending therethrough, suchthat at least a portion of the inner seal moves closer to the outer seal322 in response to the tube coupling portion extending therethrough. Asthe inner seal 324 wears, the beveled edge 324 remains in contact withthe tube coupling portion 146. In another embodiment, a biasing member(not shown) at least partially surrounds the inner seal 324 to bias theinner seal towards the axial center 286. An exemplary biasing member forsurrounding the inner seal 324 is a spring having its first endconnected to its second end. The length 166 of the tube coupling portion146 is selected such that when the mating feature 190 is mated with themating feature 228, the tube coupling portion engages the o-ring seal300 and the lip seal 304.

The lip seal 304 defines a fluid cavity 336 between the inner seal 324and the outer seal 322. The fluid cavity 336 is a “U” shaped cavity andis open on an upstream side of the lip seal 304. As described below, thefluid cavity 336 is configured to receive a supply of fluid (such aswater) when the coupler system 104 is in use.

The shuttle guide structure 308 is partially located in the couplingchannel 282 of the left body portion 274 and the fluid channel 294 ofthe right body portion 278. The shuttle guide structure 308 isconfigured to extend about the coupling channel 282 and the fluidchannel 294 and is centered about the axial center 286.

As shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, the shuttle guide structure 308 includes aguide portion 340 and an overmolded seal 342. The overmolded seal 342may be formed as a separate component, depending on the desiredapplication, and is optionally connected to the structure 308. The guideportion 340 is at least partially positioned within the channel 282 onthe upstream side of the lip seal 304. The guide portion 340 defines acylindrical passage 344 from which a plurality of ribs 346 extendsradially inward toward the axial center 286. In the exemplaryembodiment, the guide portion 340 includes eight of the ribs 346, whichare equally spaced apart from each other. Other numbers of ribs 346 arepossible and do not limit the scope of the disclosure. In anotherembodiment, none of the ribs 346 are included. In yet anotherembodiment, the guide portion 340 is provided with either a guidingfeature (not shown) in a formed or shape other than a rib or a guidingsurface. A plurality of fluid channels 348 is defined between the ribs346. The fluid channels 348 are generally arc shaped. A radially innersurface of each rib 346 defines a guide surface 350 configured to guidethe shuttle 310. A guide diameter 352 is defined between diametricallyopposite ribs 346. The guide portion 340 also defines an exterior sealgroove 354 configured to receive the o-ring seal 306. The guide portion340 is formed from thermoplastic, aluminum, brass, or any other materialas desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The overmolded seal 342 is formed around and is connected to the guideportion 340. The overmolded seal 342 is formed from an elastomericmaterial, rigid coating, or the like as desired by those of ordinaryskill in the art. Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV) is one example of theelastomeric material. The overmolded seal 342 or a separate component(not shown) that is either separate or integral to the shuttle guidestructure 308 defines a fluid passage 358 through a beveled valve seat360, a left annular seal surface 362, and a right annular seal surface364. The beveled valve seat 360, also referred to herein as a valve seatsurface, is free from gates, sink marks, flash, and parting lines and issubstantially uniform. The beveled valve seat 360 is angled with respectto the axial center 286. Depending on the application, the seat 360 doesnot require a beveled surface, but is still able to restrict fluid flow.

As shown in FIG. 32, the left annular seal surface 362 contacts the leftbody portion 274 and the right body portion 278 and is configured toform a fluid tight and leak free connection therebetween. In particular,the left annular seal surface 362 is forced against an end surface 368of the left body portion 274.

The right annular seal surface 364 is also configured to form a fluidtight and leak free connection between the left body portion 274 and theright body portion 278. The right annular seal surface 364 is biasedagainst a shoulder 370 of the right body portion 278 to prevent fluidfrom flowing between the overmolded seal 342 and the right body portion.

With reference again to FIG. 31, the shuttle 310 is movable within thecoupling channel 282, the passage 344 defined by the guide portion 340,and the fluid passage 358 defined by the overmolded seal 342. Theshuttle 310 includes a cylindrical portion provided as an extendingportion 374 and a flange 376. The extending portion 374 extends from theflange 376 in a downstream direction and is generally cylindrical and issized to fit within the passage 344 of the guide portion 340. Inparticular, an outside diameter 378 of the extending portion 374 isslightly less than the diameter 352 of the passage 344 so that theextending portion is slidable against the guide surfaces 350 between avalve open position (FIG. 46) and a valve closed position (FIG. 32).Although the system 100 illustrated herein includes the shuttle 310 toshut off the fluid from entering into the fluid passage 358, it isunderstood that the system 100 can be designed without the shuttle 310and yet maintain the leak free and fluid tight seal.

The extending portion 374 defines an first end portion provided as anopen end portion 382, an opposite second end portion provided as aclosed end portion 384, and a shuttle fluid passage 386 extendingtherebetween. In another embodiment, both the first end portion and thesecond end portion are closed, and the fluid bypasses the shuttle 310.In yet another embodiment, one of the first end portion and the secondend portion may be open and the other end portion may be closed.

The extending portion 374 further defines a plurality of auxiliary ports388 and a plurality of main ports 390. The auxiliary ports 388 areapproximately circular passages through the extending portion 374 to thefluid passage 386. In the illustrated embodiment, four of the auxiliaryports 388 are evenly spaced apart from each other. In anotherembodiment, the auxiliary ports 388 are rectangular, roundedrectangular, triangular, or any other shape as desired by those ofordinary skill in the art. The auxiliary ports 388 are configured toenable fluid to flow from the fluid passage 386 to the fluid passages348 defined by the ribs 346 and then to the cavity 336. In anotherembodiment, the ports 388 are optional and yet the shuttle 310 remainsconfigured to feed the fluid therethrough via bypass.

The main ports 390 are rounded rectangle shaped passages through theextending portion 374 to the fluid passage 386. In the illustratedembodiment, four of the main ports 390 are evenly spaced apart from eachother. In another embodiment, the main ports 390 are rectangular,rounded rectangular, triangular, or any other shape as desired by thoseof ordinary skill in the art. In another embodiment, the ports 390 areoptional and yet the shuttle 310 remains configured to feed the fluidtherethrough via bypass.

The flange 376 of the shuttle 310 extends radially outwardly from theextending portion 374 away from the axial center 286. The flange 376includes a seal surface 394 and a spring surface 369 and defines adebris cavity 398 (FIG. 32). The seal surface 394 is a substantiallyannular surface that is angled with respect to the axial center 286. Theangle of the seal surface 394 corresponds to the angle of the beveledvalve seat 360. Accordingly, the shuttle 310 and beveled valve seat 360form a valve configurable in the valve closed position (FIG. 32) and thevalve open position (FIG. 46). In particular, the seal surface 394 isconfigured to form a fluid tight and leak free seal with the beveledvalve seat 360 when the shuttle is in the valve closed position. In thevalve open position, the seal surface 394 and the beveled valve seat 360are configured to enable fluid to pass therebetween. Furthermore, thelength 166 of the tube coupling portion 146 is selected such that whenthe mating feature 190 is mated with the mating feature 228, the tubecoupling portion engages the shuttle 310.

The spring surface 396 extends approximately perpendicularly from theaxial center 286 and is a generally flat annular surface.

The debris cavity 398 is formed on the closed end 384 of the shuttle310. The debris cavity 398 is isolated from the fluid passage 386.

The biasing member 312 is located in the fluid channel 394 between thespring surface 396 and the shoulder 296. In the illustrated embedment,the biasing member 312 is shown as a compression spring. The biasingmember 312 is configured to bias the seal surface 394 into sealingcontact with the beveled valve seat 360 and to bias the male connector132 away from the female connector 134, when the mating feature 190 andthe mating feature 228 are mated. In another embodiment, the biasingmember 312 is at least one of a conical spring, a wave spring, astraight spring, and a pneumatic biasing member, such as a bladder andthe like. Accordingly, the biasing member 312 is any biasing member asdesired by those of ordinary skill in the art. Also, in someembodiments, the female connector 134 does not include the biasingmember 312. Additionally, in some embodiments, a second biasing member(not shown) is located on an opposite side of the spring surface 396from the biasing member 312. The second biasing member is alsoconfigured to bias the shuttle 310 toward the beveled valve seat 360.

With reference again to FIG. 23, the coupler system 106 is connected tothe hose 110 and to the sillcock 108. The coupler system 106 includes amale connector 420 and a female connector 422. The male connector 420 ismated to the hose 110 and to the female connector 422.

With reference to FIGS. 35 and 36, the male connector 420 includes abody portion 426 and a rotating ring assembly 428. The body portion 426includes a barbed coupling portion 432, a shoulder 434, a ring groove436 (FIG. 36), and a tube coupling portion 438. The shoulder 434 and thering groove 436 are optional and are not included in certainapplications. The barbed coupling portion 432 includes a barbed matingfeature 440 defining a plurality of barbs 442. In another embodiment,any protrusion or indentation to form the coupling portion 432 ispossible. The hose available in other markets such as in Europe does notrequire a threaded feature or a barbed feature. Instead the connector420 is mechanically connected to the hose or the fluid system usingcompression fitting method. Of course, other forms of fittings arepossible. As illustrated, the body portion 426, the rotating ringassembly 428, and other optional features are formed as separatecomponents. In another embodiment, the entire system is formed as asingle unit.

The shoulder 434 is located between the barbed coupling portion 432 andthe ring groove 436. The shoulder 434 is substantially circular.

The body portion 426 further defines a journal 446 located between thering groove 436 and the shoulder 434. The journal 446 is a substantiallycircular portion of the body portion 426.

The ring groove 436 is located between the shoulder 434 and the tubecoupling portion 438, and between the journal 446 and the tube couplingportion. The ring groove 436 is formed completely around the bodyportion 426.

The tube coupling portion 438 is located opposite from the barbedcoupling portion 432. The tube coupling portion 438 is shaped as agenerally cylindrical tube. The tube coupling portion 438 defines aninside diameter 448 and an outside diameter 450. The diameters 448, 450are approximately constant along a length 452 of the tube couplingportion 438, and an outer surface 454 of the tube coupling portion 438is substantially free from abrasions or other irregularities.

The body portion 426 defines a fluid channel 456 extending from an endportion 458 of the body portion to an opposite end portion 460 of thebody portion. The body portion 426 is formed from aluminum, brass,thermoplastic, or any other material desired by those of ordinary skillin the art that is suitable for the type of fluid configured to passthrough the fluid channel 456.

As shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the rotating ring assembly 428 includes acoupling ring 466, an overmolded portion 468, a lock ring 470 (FIG. 36),and a mating feature 472 (FIG. 36). The coupling ring 466 issubstantially cylindrical and extends about the end portion 460 of thebody portion 426. The coupling ring 466 defines a cavity 476 and a seatstructure 478. The coupling ring 466 extends beyond the tube couplingportion 438, such that the tube coupling portion is positionedcompletely within the cavity 476 to prevent damage to the tube couplingportion. The coupling ring 466 is formed from zinc, steel, bronze,titanium, aluminum, brass, stainless steel, thermoplastic or any othermaterial as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art. In anotherembodiment, the rotating ring assembly 428 is not used to couple theconnector 420 to the connector 422, 134. The barbed mating feature 440and the tube coupling portion 438 is integrated into a single unit andis connected to the connector 422, 134. A secondary element (not shown)is then actuated to connect the single unit 440, 438 to the connector422, 134 in place.

The seat structure 478 defines an approximately circular seat opening480 through which the body portion 426 is configured to extend into thecavity 476. In particular, the seat structure 478 is positioned againstthe shoulder 434 and the journal 446, and is configured for continuousrotation about the journal.

The overmolded portion 468 is located on the coupling ring 466. Theovermolded portion 468 is configured to be gripped by a user. In anexemplary embodiment, the overmolded portion is formed from anelastomeric material, rigid coating, or the like as desired by those ofordinary skill in the art. Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV) is oneexample of the elastomeric material. The elastomeric material can bemulti layer, snap on by two or more similar materials, or solidmaterial.

The lock ring 470 is located in the ring groove 436 and is configured torotatably connect the coupling ring 466 to the body portion 426. Inparticular, the lock ring 470 is configured to trap the seat structure478 between the shoulder 434 and the lock ring 470. The lock ring 470prevents movement of the coupling ring 466 toward the tube couplingportion 438, and the shoulder 434 prevents movement of the coupling ringtoward the barbed coupling portion 432.

The mating feature 472 includes a plurality of protuberances, providedas pins 484 extending towards an axial center 486 of the body portion426 from the coupling ring 466. The mating feature 472 can be in otherforms such as monolithic or added components to the surface. In yetanother embodiment, an inner surface 485 of the coupling ring 466 may bealtered or modified to form the mating feature 472. The pins 484 extendthrough passages 490 formed in the coupling ring 466 and are fixedlyconnected to the coupling ring. The overmolded portion 468 covers oneend of the pins 484. In another embodiment, the pins 484 extend from thecoupling ring 466 without extending through passages 490 formed in thecoupling ring; accordingly, the pins and the coupling ring are anintegrally formed monolithic part. The pins 490 are formed from halfhard brass, brass, aluminum, stainless steel, or any other suitablematerial, as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art. The pins 484have a generally rounded shape, but in other embodiments have any shapeas desired by those of ordinary skill in the art. The mating feature 472includes at least one of the pins 484, depending on the embodiment. Asillustrated in FIG. 36, the pins 484 are formed on the coupling ring 466while the grooves 216 are formed on the connector 134; however, thefitting methods and designs of the grooves 216 and the pins 484 can bereversed. For example in one embodiment, the grooves 216 are formed onthe male connector 132 and the pins 484 extend from the connector 134.Similarly, the fitting methods and designs can also be incorporated inthe system as shown in FIG. 21.

The mating feature 472 includes three of the pins 484 equally spacedapart by approximately one hundred twenty degrees (only two of the pinsare shown in FIG. 36). The pins 484 extend from the coupling ring 466toward the axial center 486. In one embodiment, the pins 484 from thecoupling ring 466 approximately three millimeters.

As shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, the female connector 422 is generallycylindrical and includes a mating feature 492 including a groovedcoupling portion 494 at a first end portion 496 and a threaded couplingportion 498 at an opposite second end portion 500. The grooved couplingportion 494 is configured to couple to the pins 484 of the matingfeature 472. The grooved coupling portion 494 defines at least as manygrooves 502 as the number of pins 484 defined by the mating feature 472,three in the exemplary embodiment. The helically shaped grooves 502 areidentical to the grooves 224 and include an entry region 504, a slideregion 512, and a seated region 522. In another embodiment, the grooves502 are “L” shaped or any other shape as desired by those of ordinaryskill in the art.

The threaded coupling portion 498 defines an exterior connection surface506 and a plurality of internal threads 508. The exterior connectionsurface 506 is hexagonal and is configured to mate with an approximatelysized wrench or spanner. The internal threads 508 are configured to matewith external threads 510 (FIG. 23) of the sillcock 108.

As shown in FIG. 38, the female connector 422 includes a left bodyportion 514 connected to a right body portion 516. The left body portion514 includes the grooved coupling portion 494 and defines a couplingchannel 518 and a plurality of external threads 520. The couplingchannel 518 extends completely through the left body portion 514 fromthe end portion 496 to the external threads 520. The coupling channel518 is centered about an axial center 524 of the connector 422. The leftbody portion 514 is formed from aluminum. In another embodiment, theleft body portion 514 is formed from stainless steel, brass,thermoplastic, or any other material as desired by those of ordinaryskill in the art. The left body portion 514 is identical to the leftbody portion 274 for at least reasons of ease of assembly and ease ofmanufacturing.

The right body portion 516 includes a body 528 that defines a pluralityof internal threads 530 and a passage structure 532. The internalthreads 530 are configured to mesh with the external threads 520 toconnect the left body portion 514 to the right body portion 516 and toestablish a fluid tight and leak free seal between the left body portionand the right body portion. In at least one embodiment, thread locker,thread sealer, epoxy, adhesive, or the like is applied to the threads520, 530 and is used to connect the left body portion 514 to the rightbody portion 516 and to assist in establishing a fluid tight and leakfree seal between the left body portion and the right body portion. Insome embodiments, the right body portion 516 is at least one ofanodized, painted, plated, hardened, and powder coated.

The passage structure 532 extends from the body 528 at a point betweenthe internal threads 530 and the internal threads 508. The passagestructure 532 defines a shoulder 534, a beveled edge 536, and asubstantially cylindrical fluid passage 538 therethrough.

A pocket 542 is defined between the body 528 and the passage structure532. An o-ring seal 544 is located in the pocket 542 and is configuredto further establish a fluid tight and leak free seal between the leftbody portion 514 and the right body portion 516.

The right body portion 516 further includes an o-ring seal 546, a spacerstructure 548, a lip seal member 550, and a flanged seal member 552. Theo-ring seal 546 is located in the coupling channel 518 and is configuredto extend about the coupling channel. The o-ring seal 546 is identicalto the o-ring seal 300.

The spacer structure 548 is located in the coupling channel 518 and isidentical to the spacer structure 302.

The lip seal 550, which is identical to the lip seal 304, is alsolocated in the coupling channel 518 and is configured to extend aboutthe coupling channel. The lip seal 550 defines a “U”-shaped crosssection and includes an outer seal 556 and an inner seal 558. The outerseal 556 includes a ring member 560 located therein. The ring member 560is rigid and resists deformation as the lip seal 550 is press fit intothe left body portion 514. When the lip seal 550 is press-fit into theleft body portion 514, the outer seal 556 is prevented from moving inthe axial direction. Accordingly, the lip seal 550 prevents movement ofthe spacer structure 548. In some embodiments, instead of being pressfit into the left body portion, the outer seal 556 is connected to theleft body portion 514 with an adhesive.

The lip seal 550 defines a fluid cavity 562 between the inner seal 558and the outer seal 556. The fluid cavity 562 is a “U” shaped cavity. Asdescribed below, the fluid cavity 562 is configured to receive a supplyof fluid when the coupler system 106 is in use.

As shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, the flanged seal member 552 includes acylinder portion 566 and a flange member 568. The cylinder portion 566defines a diameter 570 that is greater than the outside diameter 450 ofthe tube coupling portion 438. The cylinder portion 566 extends from theflange member 568 and includes ribs referred to herein as a wallstructure 572 that divides a passage 574 through the cylinder portioninto sub-passages 576. In the exemplary cylinder portion 566 the wallstructure 572 divides the passage 574 into four of the sub-passages 576.A notch space 580 is formed in the wall structure 572. The length 166 ofthe tube coupling portion 146 is selected such that when the matingfeature 190 is mated with the mating feature 228, the tube couplingportion engages the cylinder portion 566. One or more sub-passage 576may be configured, depending on the application. In another embodiment,the cylinder portion 566 does not include the sub-passages 576. Inanother embodiment, the flanged seal member 552 includes the wallstructure 572, but does not include the surrounding cylinder portion566. The flanged seal member 522 is overmolded in one example, and isformed as multiple pieces including structures described above.

The flanged seal member 522 is formed from a resilient elastomermaterial or any other material as desired by those of ordinary skill inthe art. Accordingly, the flanged seal member 522 is configured toresist compression in the axial direction (i.e. in the direction of theaxial center 524). In another embodiment the flanged seal member 522 andthe left body portion 514 are an integral and monolithic part formedusing at least a two-step molding process that makes the flanged sealmember inseparable from the left body portion without destroying atleast one of the flanged seal member and the left body portion. In yetanother embodiment, the flanged seal member 522 is overmolded into thefemale connector 498.

The flange member 568 includes a left beveled surface 584, a leftannular surface 586, an outer annular surface 588, a right annularsurface 590, and a right beveled surface 592. The left beveled surface584 is positioned against the beveled edge 536 of the passage structure532. The left annular surface 586 abuts the shoulder 534 of the passagestructure 532. The outer annular surface 588 is positioned against thebody 528. The right annular surface 590 and at least a portion of theright beveled surface 592 are positioned against the sillcock 108, asshown in FIG. 23.

The flange member 568 further includes three bump members provided astab members 596, which are configured to prevent rotation of the flangedseal member 522 within the fluid passage 538. The flange member 568 mayinclude any number of the tab members 596. In some embodiments, theflange member 568 does not include the tab members 596.

In operation, the fluid system 100 is configured to perform a method 700shown in FIG. 41, which includes a method of manipulating the couplersystems 104, 106. With reference to FIG. 42, the fluid system 100 isshown partially disconnected, with the sillcock 108 disconnected fromthe female connector 422, the male connector 420 disconnected from thefemale connector 422, and the female connector 134 disconnected from themale connector 132. The fluid system 100 is shown partially disconnectedsince the male connector 132 is shown, in this example, as beingconnected to the nozzle 102.

With reference to FIG. 43, first the sillcock 108 is positioned in aclosed configuration that prevents fluid from flowing through a bibportion 600 thereof.

Next, the female connector 422 is connected to the bib portion 600 bythreading the internal threads 508 of the threaded coupling portion 498onto the external threads 510 of the bib portion 600. When the threadedcoupling portion 498 reaches the seated position shown in FIG. 43, theflange member 568 is compressed between the shoulder 534 and the bibportion 600 to establish a fluid tight and leak free seal between thebib portion and the threaded coupling portion. Additionally, thecompression prevents axial movement of the flange member 568 along theaxial center 524.

Then, as shown in block 704 of FIG. 41, the male connector 420 isconnected to a fluid conductor, such as the hose 110 by inserting thebarbed coupling portion 432 into the hose. The barbed coupling portion432 establishes a fluid tight and leak free connection between the fluidchannel 456 and the hose 110.

With reference to block 708, next the tube coupling portion 438 of themale connector 420 is associated with the female connector 422. Inparticular, the male connector 420 is moved axially in the direction ofthe bib portion 600 until the tube coupling portion 438 begins to enterthe coupling channel 518 by passing through a mouth opening 604 formedin the end portion 496 and opening to the coupling channel 518. The endportion 496 includes a chamfer 608 to enable smooth passage and easyalignment of the tube coupling portion 438 with the mouth opening 604.

Then, the male connector 420 is moved further toward the bib portion 600so that the tube coupling portion 438 is inserted into the couplingchannel 518. Specifically, at this stage of the connection process, thetube coupling portion 438 is moved through the o-ring seal 546. Since,the o-ring seal 546 is slightly smaller in diameter than the outsidediameter 450 of the tube coupling portion 438, the o-ring seal 546 formsa fluid tight seal against the tube coupling portion. Additionally, theo-ring seal 546 prevents debris on the tube coupling portion 438 frommoving past the o-ring seal 546, which debris could potentially damageor wear the lip seal 550. The male connector 420 is moved in thedirection of the bib portion 600 until the pins 484 of the matingfeature 472 contact the end portion 496.

As shown in block 712, during the above movement of the tube couplingportion 438 into the coupling channel 518, the grooved coupling portion494 of the female connector 422 is associated with the male connector420. In particular, the grooved coupling portion 494 is inserted intothe cavity 476 defined by the coupling ring 466 of the ring assembly428.

With reference to block 716 and FIG. 44, next the coupling ring 466 isrotated to engage the mating feature 472 of the male connector 420 withthe mating feature 492 of the female connector 422. To begin theengagement, the coupling ring 466 is rotated in a clockwise direction(in this embodiment) until the pins 484 are aligned with the entryregions 504 (FIG. 37) of the grooves 502. When the alignment occurs,pressure is applied to the male connector 420, which moves the maleconnector toward the bib portion 600 and causes the pins 484 to enterthe entry regions 504. Additionally, the movement of the male connector420 causes the tube coupling portion 438 to move through the inner seal558 of the lip-seal 550, which establishes a fluid tight connectionbetween inner seal and the outer surface 454 of the tube couplingportion 438.

Next, as shown in block 720, the coupling ring 466 is manipulated toconnect the male connector 420 to the female connector 422. Inparticular, the coupling ring 466 is rotated relative to the femaleconnector 422 in a connecting direction to cause the pins 484 enter theslide regions 512 (FIG. 37) of the grooves 502. The rotational forceapplied to the coupling ring 466 causes the male connector 420 to moveaxially toward the bib portion 600 as the pins 484 slide toward theseated regions 522 (FIG. 37), much the same way that a screw top bottlecap moves axially towards or away from the bottle in response to beingrotated without any axially directed force from the user.

The above-described axial movement of the male connector 420 causes thetube coupling portion 438 to move within the coupling channel 518towards the flanged seal member 552. During this movement the endportion 460 pushes against the cylinder portion 566 and compresses thecylinder portion.

The coupling ring 466 is rotated relative to the female connector 422 inthe connecting direction until the pins 484 become seated in the seatregions 522 of the grooves 502. Accordingly, rotation of the couplingring 466 causes the pins 484 to be positioned at knees 608 (FIG. 37) ofthe grooves 502 and compresses the flanged seal member 552. As the pins484 are rotated past the knees 608 the flanged seal member 552 functionsas a biasing member and the resiliency of the flanged seal member,pushes the male connector 420 away from bib portion 600 until the pinsare seated in the seated regions 522 (see rightmost pin 202 in FIG. 30).The movement of the male connector 420 away from the bib portion 600 israpid and causes the coupling system 106 to emit a sound as the pins 484are quickly snapped against the grooves 502. The sound is audible tomost users a “click” or a “snap” to alert the user that a connection hasbeen established between the male connector 420 and the female connector422. Additionally, when the pins 484 are snapped against the grooves 502a vibration is felt by most users as tactile feedback to further alertthe user that a connection has been established between the maleconnector 420 and the female connector 422.

With reference to FIG. 44, next, fluid 614 to the hose 110 is initiatedby opening the sillcock 108. The fluid flows through the passage 574 inthe cylinder portion 566 of the flanged seal member 552. In particular,a first flow path 618 of fluid flows through the passage 574, into thetube coupling portion 438, and then into the hose 110. A second flowpath 622 of fluid flows through the passage 574 then flows outside ofthe tube coupling portions 438 and into the cavity 562 defined by thelip seal 550. The fluid in the cavity 562 develops a pressure thatbiases the inner seal 558 against the outer surface 454 of tube couplingportion 438 to further establish a fluid tight and leak free connectionbetween the male connector 420 and the female connector 422.

As shown in FIG. 45, as the fluid flows through hose 110 it reaches thefemale connector 134, which is disconnected from the male connector 132.As shown by the fluid flow path 626, the fluid is prevented from flowingthrough the passage 358 in the overmolded seal 342, since the flange 376of the shuttle 310 is sealed against the beveled valve seat 360 to closethe valve defined by the shuttle and the overmolded seal. The biasingmember 312 and the pressure of the fluid from the hose 110 forces theflange 376 against the beveled valve seat 360. As such, in theconfiguration shown in FIG. 23, when the female connector 134 isdisconnected from the male connector 132, the female connector preventsfluid from flowing through the coupling channel 282 even though fluid isbeing supplied from the sillcock 108 (FIG. 22).

Next, the user selects a fluid conductor or fluid device, such as thenozzle 102, and then connects the male connector 132 to the fluidconductor. Specifically, the threaded coupling portion 140 is connectedto the internal threads 126 of the shank 120. Typically, during theconnection, the nozzle 102 is held stationary and the threaded couplingportion 140 is rotated. A wrench (not shown) may be used against thewrench flats 152, 154 to achieve a desirable level of tightness. A fluidtight and leak free connection is established between the threadedcoupling portion 140 and the nozzle 102.

Thereafter, the male connector 132 is engaged and then mated to thefemale connector 134. To mate the connectors 132, 134, first the maleconnector 132 is moved toward the female connector 134 so that thegrooved coupling portion 216 is received by the cavity 194 defined bythe coupling ring 184. Thereafter, the male connector 132 is movedaxially in the direction of the barbed coupling portion 220 until thetube coupling portion 146 beings to enter the coupling channel 282. Inparticular, the male connector 132 is moved axially in the direction ofthe bib portion 600 until the tube coupling portion 146 begins to enterthe coupling channel 282 by passing through a mouth opening 563 formedin the end portion 218 and opening to the coupling channel 282. Themouth opening 563 is configured to receive the tube coupling portion146.

Then, the male connector 132 is moved further toward the barbed couplingportion 220 so that the tube coupling portion 146 is moved through theo-ring seal 300. Since, the o-ring seal 300 is slightly smaller indiameter than the outside diameter 164 of the tube coupling portion 146,the o-ring seal 300 forms a fluid tight seal against the outer surface168 tube coupling portion. Additionally, the o-ring seal 300 preventsdebris on the tube coupling portion 146 from moving past the o-ring seal300, which debris could potentially damage or wear the lip seal 304. Themale connector 132 is moved in the direction of the barbed couplingportion 220 until the pins 202 of the mating feature 190 contact the endportion 218.

Rotating Coupling Ring

Next with reference to FIG. 46, the ring assembly 138 is rotated toengage the mating feature 190 of the male connector 132 with the matingfeature 228 of the female connector 134. To begin the engagement, thering assembly 138 is rotated in a clockwise direction (in thisembodiment) until the pins 202 are aligned with the entry regions 230(FIG. 30) of the grooves 224. In another embodiment, the ring assembly138 is rotated counterclockwise. When the alignment occurs, pressure isapplied to the male connector 132, which moves the male connector towardthe barbed coupling portion 220 and causes the pins 202 to enter theentry regions 230, at which point the male connector is engaged with thefemale connector 134. Also, the movement of the male connector 132causes the tube coupling portion 146 to move through the inner seal 324of the lip seal 304 which establishes a fluid tight connection betweenlip seal and the outer surface 168 of the tube coupling portion 146.Furthermore, positioning the pins 202 in the entry regions 230 positionsthe end portion 160 of the tube coupling portion 146 against a non-fixedstructure of the female connector 134 (i.e. the end portion 382 of theshuttle 310).

Next, the ring assembly 138 is rotated relative to the female connector134 in a connecting direction to connect the male connector 132 to thefemale connector 134, to open the valve formed by the shuttle 310 andthe overmolded seal 342, and to place the fluid channel 172 in fluidcommunication with the fluid channel 294. In particular, when the ringassembly 138 is rotated, the pins 202 enter the slide regions 232 (FIG.30) of the grooves 224. The rotational force applied to the ringassembly 138 causes the male connector 132 to move axially toward thebarbed coupling portion 220 as the pins 202 slide toward the seatedregions 234 (FIG. 30).

The above-described axial movement of the male connector 132 causes thetube coupling portion 146 to move within the coupling channel 282further towards the barbed coupling portion 220. During this movement,the tube coupling portion 146 pushes against the shuttle 310 and causesthe shuttle to move towards the barbed coupling portion 220 against theforce of the biasing member 312. As the shuttle 310 moves, the fluidtight seal between the flange 376 and the beveled valve seat 360 isbroken as the flange moves away from the overmolded seal 342.

Feedback from Connectors when Mated

The ring assembly 138 is rotated relative to the female connector 134 inthe connecting direction until the pins 202 become seated in the seatregions 234 of the grooves 224, as which point the male connector 132 ismated to the female connector 134 and the tube coupling portion 147 isengaged with the o-ring seal 300 and the lip seal 304. Accordingly,rotation of the ring assembly 138 compresses the biasing member 312until the pins 202 are positioned at the knee regions 258 of the grooves224. The compression of the biasing member 312 biases the male connector132 away from the female connector 134.

As the pins are rotated past the knee regions 258, the biasing member312 decompresses (and the fluid pressure, if fluid is supplied), pushesthe male connector 132 away from barbed coupling portion 220 until thepins 202 are seated in the seated regions 234 and the male connector 132is mated to the female connector 134. The biasing member 312 is alignedwith the tube coupling portion 147 when mating feature 190 is mated withthe mating feature 228. The movement of the male connector 132 away fromthe barbed coupling portion 220 is rapid and causes the coupler system104 to emit a sound as the pins 202 are quickly snapped against thegrooves 224. The sound is audible to most users a “click” or a “snap”that alerts the user that a connection has been established between themale connector 132 and the female connector 134. Additionally, when thepins 202 are snapped against the grooves 224 a vibration is felt by mostusers, as tactile feedback, to further alert the user that a connectionhas been established between the male connector 132 and the femaleconnector 134.

Additionally, the o-ring seal 300 functions as a biasing member that isconfigured to bias the male connector 132 away from the female connector134. In particular, as the tube coupling portion 146 is extended throughthe o-ring seal 300, friction between the outer surface 168 of the tubecoupling 146 and the o-ring seal 300 causes at least a portion of theseal 300 to move slightly and to develop a biasing force in thedirection of the end portion 218. The biasing force developed by theo-ring seal 300 contributes to causing the feedback that occurs when themale connector 132 is mated with the female connector 134. Furthermore,in embodiments of the female connector 134 that do not include thebiasing member 312, the biasing force generated by the o-ring seal 300generates the feedback described above.

The lip seal 304 also functions as a biasing member that is configuredto bias the male connector 132 away from the female connector 134. Inparticular, as the tube coupling portion 146 is extended through theinner seal 324, the lip seal 304 develops a biasing force that tends tomove the inner seal radially inward toward the axial center 286. Whenthe biasing force acts upon the tube coupling portion 146, the forcetends to move the male connector 132 away from the female connector 134.The biasing force developed by the lip seal 304 contributes todeveloping the feedback that occurs when the male connector 132 is matedwith the female connector 134. Furthermore, in embodiments of the femaleconnector 134 that do not include the biasing member 312, the biasingforce generated by the lip seal 304 generates the feedback describedabove.

The grooved coupling portion 216 prevents the user from having todirectly apply an axial force to move the shuttle 310 (i.e. open thevalve). Instead, the grooves 224 offer the user a mechanical advantage,that reduces the force required to move shuttle 310 against the biasingforce of the biasing member 312. Additionally, since the user isprevented from having to move the shuttle 310 with an axially directedforce, a stiffer biasing member 312 is usable than would otherwise besuitable.

When the male connector 132 is mated with the female connector 134 theend portion 160 of the tube coupling portion 146 extends beyond theo-ring seal 300 and the lip seal 304 toward the ribbed coupling portion220 and away from the threaded coupling portion 140.

Fluid Paths Through Shuttle and Shuttle Guide

As shown by the fluid flow path 630 of FIG. 46, when the connectors 132,134 are connected the valve is opened and fluid is able to flow throughthe through the main ports 390 of the shuttle 310 past the seal surface394 and the beveled valve seat 360. This flow of fluid in conjunctionwith the shape of the beveled valve seat 360 and the seal surface 394removes any debris that may have collected on the beveled valve seat andthe seal surface.

Next, the fluid takes one of two flow paths 634, 638. As shown by flowpath 634, some fluid flows into the fluid passage 172 through the tubecoupling portion 142. Some fluid, as shown by the flow path 638, flowsthough the auxiliary ports 388 and into the fluid channels 348 definedbetween the ribs 346 of the shuttle guide structure 308.

The fluid that flows into the fluid channels 348 flows into the cavity336 defined by the lip seal 304. The fluid in the cavity 336 develops apressure that biases the beveled portion 330 of the inner seal 324against the outer surface 168 of tube coupling portion 146 to furtherestablish a fluid tight and leak free connection between the maleconnector 132 and the female connector 134.

The fluid that takes the flow path 634 flows into the nozzle 102. Whenthe valve 118 of the nozzle 102 is opened, the fluid exits the tip 122of the nozzle. When the valve 118 of the nozzle 102 is closed, fluid isprevented from leaking at each junction of the system 100.

During usage of the nozzle 102, rotation of the ring assembly 138 in adisconnecting direction (opposite to the connecting direction) isprevented by the knee regions 258 of the grooves 224, such thatundesired disconnection of the connectors 132, 134 is prevented. Inparticular, the knee regions 258 function as detents that preventrotation of the coupling ring 184 in the disconnecting direction andhold the coupling ring in the connected position. The hold of the kneeregions 258 is overcome by an increased rotational force that moves themale connector 132 toward barbed coupling portion 220 and compresses thebiasing member 312 as the pins 202 slide on the knee regions 258 towardthe slide regions 232.

When usage of the nozzle 102 is complete the user disconnects the nozzlefrom the hose 110 by disconnecting the male connector 132 from thefemale connector 134. Conveniently, during the disconnection process thehose 110 remains supplied with fluid. To begin, the ring assembly 138 isrotated in the disconnect direction which causes the pins 202 to movepast the knee regions 258 and into the slide regions 232 (see FIG. 30).Continued rotation of the ring assembly 138 moves the male connector 132away from the barbed coupling portion 220, which enables the biasingmember 312 to bias the shuttle 310 against the beveled valve seat 360and close the valve. When the valve is closed the supply of fluid fromthe female connector 134 is ceased. Further rotation of the ringassembly 138 positions the pins 202 in the entry regions 230, at whichpoint the male connector 132 is moved away from the female connector 134and the connectors are separated.

During the connection and disconnection processes the overmoldedportions 186, 290, 468 offer some advantages. First, the overmoldedportions 186, 290, 468 remain relatively cool to the touch when thesystem 100 has been left in the sun. Second, the overmolded portions186, 290, 468 function as bumpers that prevent damage should theconnectors 132, 134, 420 be dropped. Also, the overmolded portions 186,290, 468 in some embodiments are provided in a particular color for theparticular fluid that the connectors 132, 134, 420 are configured tochannel. For example, in a cold water system the overmolded portions186, 290, 468 are blue and in a hot water system the overmolded portionsare red. Similarly, in a pneumatic system the overmolded portions 186,290, 468 are a particular to distinguish from a liquid system. In apneumatic system configured to channel oxygen, the overmolded portions186, 290, 468 are green.

The fluid system 100 offers numerous other advantages. First, users canquickly and easily disconnect a fluid device, such as the nozzle 102,from the hose 100 without having to stop the flow of fluid through thehose at the sillcock 108, for example. This is convenient if the user isworking at an extended from the sillcock. Second, the male connector132, 420 and the female connector 134, 422 are quickly and easilyconnected and disconnected from each other. The ring assembly 138, 428of the male connector 132, 420 is rotated less than a quarter turn toconnect/disconnect the connectors 132, 134, 420, 422, thereby making theconnectors easy to operate, even for users with dexterity issues. Themale connector 132, 420 and the female connector 134, 422 offer aconvenient approach for connecting a fluid conductor to the hose 110,without requiring the supply of fluid to the hose to be stopped.

As another advantage, when the male connector 132, 420 is connected tothe female connector 134, 422 the body portion 136, 426 is rotatablerelative to the coupling ring 184, 466, the female connector, and thehose 110 to reduce the tendency of the hose to develop bends and kinksduring usage of the nozzle 102. Accordingly, when the male connector 132is connected to the female connector and to the nozzle 102, the nozzleis rotatable relative to the hose 110.

Connected Coupler

As shown in FIG. 47, a nozzle assembly 650 includes a nozzle apparatus654 and a male connector 658. The nozzle apparatus includes a body 662and a valve 664. The body defines a fluid channel 668 therethrough. Thevalve 664 is shown in a closed position that prevents fluid flow througha tip 670 of the nozzle apparatus 654. The valve 664 is movable to anopen position in response to movement of a handle 672 of the nozzleapparatus 654. The nozzle apparatus 654, is representative of any fluiddevice, such as water sprinklers, pneumatic devices, and any other fluiddevice as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The male connector 658 extends from the nozzle apparatus 654 andincludes a body portion 676 and a ring assembly 680. The body portion676 is integrally formed with the body 662 of the nozzle apparatus, suchthat the body portion 676 and the body 662 are a monolithic part. Thebody portion 676 includes a tube coupling portion 682 and a plurality ofpins 694 and defines a fluid channel 676 therethrough. The pins 694 arein a fixed relationship with the tube coupling portion 682. The tubecoupling portion 682 is substantially identical to the tube couplingportion 146 of the male connector 132 (FIG. 3). The fluid channel 684 ofthe body portion 676 is fluidly coupled to the fluid channel 668 of thebody 662. In another embodiment, the body portion 676 is permanentlyconnected to the body 662.

The ring assembly 680 includes a coupling ring 686, an overmoldedportion 688, and a mating feature 690. The coupling ring 686 issubstantially cylindrical and extends about the body portion 676. Thecoupling ring 686 is integrally formed with the body 662 of the nozzleapparatus and the body portion 676, such that the coupling ring 686, thebody portion 676, and the body 662 are a monolithic part. Accordingly,the coupling ring 686 is fixedly connected to the body portion 676 and,therefore, is rotatably fixed in position with respect to the body 662and to the body portion 676. In another embodiment, the ring assembly680 is permanently connected to the body 662.

The overmolded portion 688 is substantially identical to the overmoldedportion 186 (FIG. 2). In another embodiment, the nozzle assembly 650does not include the overmolded portion 686.

The mating feature 690 is formed on an internal surface 692 of thecoupling ring 686 and includes a plurality of protuberances, provided aspins 694, encircling an inside of the coupling ring. The mating feature690 can be in other forms such as monolithic or added components to thesurface. In yet another embodiment, the surface 692 may be altered ormodified to form the mating feature 690. The pins 694 extend throughpassages 696 formed in the coupling ring 686 and are fixedly connectedto the coupling ring. The overmolded portion 688 covers one end of thepins 694.

Accordingly, the male connector 658 is configured to connect to thefemale connector 134, 422 in substantially the same way that the maleconnector 132 connects to the female connector 134, except that insteadof rotating the coupling ring 686 relative to the body portion 676 andthe female connector 134, 422 to engage the mating features 690, 288,492, the entire nozzle assembly 650 (including the coupling ring 686) isrotated relative to the female connector 134, 422.

As shown in FIG. 48, another nozzle assembly 750 includes a nozzleapparatus 754 and a male connector 758. The nozzle apparatus includes abody 762 and a valve 764. The body 762 defines a fluid channel 768therethrough. The valve 764 is shown in a closed position that preventsfluid flow through a tip 770 of the nozzle apparatus 754. The valve 764is movable to an open position in response to movement of a handle 772of the nozzle apparatus 754. The nozzle apparatus 754, is representativeof any fluid device, such as sprinklers, pneumatic devices, and anyother fluid device as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The male connector 758 extends from the nozzle apparatus 754 andincludes a body portion 776 and a ring assembly 780. The body portion776 is substantially identical to the body portion 136 (FIG. 25) exceptthat instead of including the threaded coupling portion 140, an endportion 780 of the body portion 776 is integrally formed with the body762 of the nozzle apparatus 754, such that the body portion 776 and thebody 762 are a monolithic part. The body portion 776 includes a tubecoupling portion 782 and defines a fluid channel 776 therethrough. Thetube coupling portion 782 is substantially identical to the tubecoupling portion 146 of the male connector 132 (FIG. 25). The fluidchannel 784 of the body portion 776 is fluidly coupled to the fluidchannel 768 of the body 762. In another embodiment, the end portion 780of the body portion 776 is permanently connected to the body 762.

The ring assembly 780 is identical to the ring assembly 138 (FIG. 25)and, therefore, is configured for rotation relative to the body portion776 and the nozzle apparatus 754. Accordingly, the male connector 758 isconfigured to connect to the female connector 134, 422 in the same waythat the male connector 132 connects to the female connector 134.

Flow Control

As shown in FIGS. 49 and 50, in another embodiment a coupling system 800is modified to enable flow control of the fluid through the couplingsystem 800 by controlling the axial position of the shuttle 310′relative to the shuttle guide structure 308′. The coupling system 800includes a male connector 804 and a female connector 808. The maleconnector 804 is configured to control the shuttle 310′ to each of aplurality of flow positions by positioning the tube coupling portion146′ in a respective one of a plurality of flow control positions. Asdescribed below, the tube coupling portion 146′ is lockable in each ofthe plurality of flow control positions.

In one embodiment, the male connector 804 is identical to the maleconnector 132 except that the connector 804 includes an angled endportion 812 formed on the tube coupling portion 146′. The angled endportion 812 defines an angle other than zero degrees with respect to aplane 810 perpendicular to the center axis 814 of the tube couplingportion 146′. In one exemplary embodiment, the angle of the angled endportion 812 is approximately sixty degrees. In another embodiment,however, the angle of the angled end portion 812 is an angle having amagnitude between twenty and eighty degrees. In another embodiment, theangle is any magnitude and can be adjusted or modified for fluidcontrol.

The female connector 808 is identical to the female connector 134 exceptthat the connector 808 includes a correspondingly angled end portion 816formed on the shuttle 310′. The angled end portion 816 defines an angleother than zero degrees with respect to the plane 810. In one example,the angled end portion 816 is angled to be supplemental to the angledend portion 812. Accordingly, in an embodiment in which the angle of theangled end portion 812 is approximately sixty degrees, the angle of theangled end portion 816 is approximately one hundred twenty degrees.Additionally, in this embodiment the shuttle 310′ is prevented fromrotating relative to the shuttle guide structure 308. In particular, theshuttle 310′ includes fins 818 (shown in phantom) that are positioned inthe fluid channels 348 (FIG. 34) defined by the ribs 346 (FIG. 34). Thefins 818 are configured to abut the ribs 346 to prevent rotation of theshuttle 310′. The contact surfaces of the end portions 812 and 816 canbe face to face, face to point, point to point, face to edge, edge toedge or combination thereof.

As shown in FIG. 49, the connectors 804, 808 are shown in a connectedposition and the valve defined by the flange 376′ and the overmoldedseal 342′ is open. In particular, the angled end portion 812 issubstantially entirely positioned against the angled end portion 816,such that the angled end portion 812 engages the angled end portion 816.This configuration is referred to as a low flow configuration.

The body portion 136′ of the male connector 804 is rotatable relative tothe rotating ring assembly 138 and the female connector 808 (includingthe shuttle 310) to a plurality of rotational orientations configured toset the flow rate of fluid that passes through the valve defined by theflange 376′ and the overmolded seal 342′. Each of the plurality ofrotational orientations is a respective one of the plurality of flowcontrol positions. As shown in FIG. 50, the body portion 136′ has beenrotated approximately one hundred eighty degrees to a position of highflow. Rotation of the body portion 136′ has caused to angled end portion812 to interact with the angled end portion 816 and to push the shuttle310′ further towards barbed coupling portion 220, such that less of theangled end portion 812 contacts the angled end portion 816. Inparticular, in the illustrated example only a tip portion 820 of theangled end portion 812 and a tip portion 824 of the angled end portion816 are in contact and the rest of the angled end portions 812, 816 arespaced apart.

The movement of the shuttle 310′ increases the distance between theflange 376′ and the overmolded seal 342′ and enables more fluid to flowtherebetween. Accordingly, rotation of the body portion 136′ causes theangled end portion 812 of the tube coupling portion 146′ to move theshuttle 310′ between a low flow position and a high position by changingthe distance that the flange 376′ is spaced part from beveled valve seat360′ of the overmolded seal 342′. The body portion 136′ is rotatable toany position between those positions shown in FIGS. 47 and 48 to supplyan intermediary flow of fluid that is greater than the low flow and lessthan the high flow. In one embodiment, the body portion 136′ is rotatedby rotating the nozzle 102 (FIG. 23) connected thereto relative to thering assembly 138′ and the female connector 808.

In some embodiments, the male connector 804 includes a locking memberprovided as a locking assembly 831. The locking assembly 831 isconfigured to fix the rotational position of the body portion 136′relative to the rotating ring assembly 138′ and to lock the tubecoupling portion 146′ in a selected flow control position.

The locking assembly 831 includes a shaft 833 and a plurality of notches835 (one of which is shown in FIG. 49). The shaft 833 extends from thebody portion 136′. The shaft 833 is terminated with a detent 837. Theplurality of notches 835 are formed in the coupling ring 184′ of thering assembly 138′ and are sized to receive the detent 837.

The shaft 833 is configured to be movable between an unlocked condition(shown in phantom in FIG. 49) and a locked condition (shown in solidline in FIG. 49). In the unlocked condition the detent 837 is spacedapart from the notches 835 such that the body portion 136, including thetube coupling portion 146, is rotatable with respect to the ringassembly 138. In the locked condition the detent 837 is positioned inone of the notches 835 such that the body portion 136, including thetube coupling portion 146, is not rotatable with respect to the ringassembly 138. In one particular embodiment, the locking assembly 831 isfixedly connected to the tube coupling portion 146.

As shown in FIG. 51, another embodiment of a female connector 848(partially shown) enables flow control of the fluid through theconnector by controlling the axial position of the shuttle 310 relativeto the shuttle guide structure 308 to each of a plurality of flowpositions. To this end, an alternative embodiment of a groove 850 formedat an end portion 851 of the female connector 848 is shown that providesfluid flow control. The groove 850 includes an entry region 852, a firstslide region 854, a first seated region 856 extending from the firstslide region toward the end portion 851, a second slide region 858, asecond seated region 860 extending from the second slide region towardthe end portion 851, a third slide region 862, and a third seated region864 extending from the third slide region toward the end portion 851.

The pins 202 are positionable in a selected one of the seated regions856, 860, 864, which controls the axial distance that the flange 376 isspaced apart from the beveled valve seat 360 of the overmolded seal 342.Positioning the pins 202 in the seated regions 856 locks the tubecoupling portion 146 in a flow control position that provides a lowfluid flow by separating the flange 376 from the beveled valve seat 360by a short axial distance. Positioning the pins 202 in the seatedregions 860 locks the tube coupling portion 146 in a flow controlposition that provides an intermediary fluid flow by separating theflange 376 from the beveled valve seat 360 by a greater axial distance.Positioning the pins 202 in the seated regions 864 locks the tubecoupling portion 146 in a flow control position that provides a highfluid flow by moving the flange 376 an even greater axial distance fromthe beveled valve seat 360.

Expansion Chamber

As shown in FIG. 52A, a coupler system 104′ includes the male connector132 and a female connector 900′ that is substantially identical to thefemale connector 134, except that the female connector 900′ includes aspacer structure 902′ having a groove structure 904′. The groovestructure 904′ defines an annular expansion area referred to herein asan expansion chamber 908′. The expansion chamber 908′ is an annular voidthat is positioned around the tube coupling portion 146. The expansionchamber 908′ is positioned between the o-ring seal 300′ and the lip seal304′. In another embodiment, the expansion chamber 908′ is formedinternally, externally, wholly around, or partially around the tubecoupling portion 146. Although one expansion chamber 908′ isillustrated, the connector 134 may include multiple expansion chambers908′, depending on the desired applications.

In use, the expansion chamber 908′ prevents fluid from exiting thecavity 194′ defined by the coupling ring 184 when the male connector 132is disconnected from the female connector 900′. In one exemplaryembodiment, fluid and pressurized air are carried through the fluidchannels 172, 294′. When disconnection of the connectors 132, 900′ isdesired, the male connector 132 is moved away from the female connector900′.

As the male connector 132 is moved away from the female connector 900′the shuttle 310′ remains biased against the end portion 160 until theseal surface 394′ is seated against the beveled valve seat 360′ and thevalve is closed. Closing of the valve isolates the fluid channel 172(which extends from the left side (in FIG. 52A) of the beveled valveseat 360′ toward the threaded coupling portion 140) from the fluid andpressurized air carried by the fluid channel 294′. However, the fluidchannel, in some configurations, may still contain pressurized fluid andair. When the end portion 160 is positioned to the right (in FIG. 52A)of the lip seal 304′ the expansion chamber 908′ is isolated from thefluid channel 172.

Continued movement of the male connector 132 away from the femaleconnector 134 positioned the end portion to the left (in FIG. 52A) ofthe lip seal 304′, but still within the female connector 134. At thispoint the expansion chamber 908′ is fluid coupled to the fluid channel172. When the expansion chamber 908′ becomes fluidly coupled to thefluid channel 172, the pressurized fluid and air in the fluid channelexpands into the expansion chamber, resulting in an overall lower airpressure within the fluid channel 172. The reduced pressure within thefluid channel 172 serves to prevent air and/or fluid from evacuating thecavity 194′ when the male connector 132 is separated from the femaleconnector 900′.

As shown in FIGS. 52B and 52C, a coupler system 104″ includes a maleconnector 132″ and a female connector 900″. The male connector 132″includes a coupling ring 184″ similar to the coupling ring 184 and atube coupling portion 146″ similar to the tube coupling portion 146. Thecoupling ring 184″ defines a cavity 194″.

The female connector 900″ includes a left body portion 910″ that issimilar to the left body portion 274 and a right body portion 912″ thatis similar to the right body portion 278. The left body portion 910″defines a coupling channel 916″ and includes a groove structure 904″positioned between an o-ring seal 920″ and a lip seal 924″. The o-ringseal 920″ is positioned in a well 926″ defined by the left body portion910″.

The groove structure 904″ defines an annular expansion area referred toherein as an expansion chamber 908″. The expansion chamber 908″ is asubstantially annular void that is positioned around the tube couplingportion 146″, as shown in FIG. 52B. The expansion chamber 908″ ispositioned between the o-ring seal 920″ and the lip seal 924″.

In use, the expansion chamber 908″ prevents fluid from exiting thecavity 194″ defined by the coupling ring 184″ when the male connector132″ is disconnected from the female connector 900″. In one exemplaryembodiment, fluid and pressurized air are carried through the fluidchannels 172″, 294″. When disconnection of the connectors 132″, 900″ isdesired, the male connector 132″ is moved away from the female connector900″.

As the male connector 132″ is moved away from the female connector 900″the shuttle 310″ remains biased against the end portion 160″ until theseal surface 394″ is seated against the beveled valve seat 360″ and thevalve is closed. Closing of the valve isolates the fluid channel 172″(which extends from the left side (in FIGS. 52B and 52C) of the beveledvalve seat 360″ toward the threaded coupling portion 140″) from thefluid and pressurized air carried by the fluid channel 294″. However,the fluid channel, in some configurations, may still contain pressurizedfluid and air. When the end portion 160″ is positioned to the right (inFIGS. 52B and 52C) of the lip seal 304″ the expansion chamber 908″ isisolated from the fluid channel 172″.

Continued movement of the male connector 132″ away from the femaleconnector 134″ positioned the end portion to the left (in FIGS. 52B and52C) of the lip seal 304″, but still within the female connector 134″.At this point the expansion chamber 908″ is fluid coupled to the fluidchannel 172″. When the expansion chamber 908″ becomes fluidly coupled tothe fluid channel 172″, the pressurized fluid and air in the fluidchannel expands into the expansion chamber, resulting in an overalllower air pressure within the fluid channel 172″. The reduced pressurewithin the fluid channel 172″ serves to prevent air and/or fluid fromevacuating the cavity 194″ when the male connector 132″ is separatedfrom the female connector 900″.

Adapter Apparatus

As shown in FIG. 53, a first block 954, a second block 958, a thirdblock 962, and a fourth block 966 define a fluid channel 970therethrough and used to describe various embodiments of an adapterapparatus. In a first embodiment, block 954 represents the femaleconnector 134, block 958 represents the male connector 132, block 962represents the male connector 132, and block 966 represents anotherfemale connector 134. Accordingly, in this embodiment the adapterapparatus 974 includes blocks 958 and 962 and is a male-male adapterthat is used to connect the female connectors 134 of blocks 954 and 966.

In another embodiment, block 954 represents the male connector 132,block 958 represents the female connector 134, block 962 represents thefemale connector 134, and block 966 represents another male connector132. Accordingly, in this embodiment the adapter apparatus 978 includesblocks 958 and 962 and is a female-female adapter that is used toconnect the male connectors 132 of blocks 954 and 966.

In yet another embodiment, block 954 represents a fluid device such asthe nozzle 102, block 958 represents the male connector 132 connected tothe nozzle 102, block 962 represents the female connector 134, and block966 represents any other type of connector, including proprietyconnectors, as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.Accordingly, in this embodiment the adapter apparatus 982 includesblocks 962 and 966 and is referred to as a female-propriety adapter.

In a further embodiment, block 954 represents a fluid device such as thenozzle 102, block 958 represents the female connector 134 connected tothe nozzle 102, block 962 represents the male connector 132, and block966 represents any other type of connector, including proprietyconnectors, as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.Accordingly, in this embodiment the adapter apparatus 986 includesblocks 962 and 966 and is referred to as a male-propriety adapter.

When the adapter apparatus 974, 978, 982, 986 is in use, block 954 isfluidly coupled to block 966 as shown by the fluid channel 970.

Filler Apparatus

As shown in FIG. 54, the system 100 is configured to function with afiller apparatus 880. The filler apparatus 880 includes an outlet 884, agrip member 888, and a tube coupling portion 892 that is identical tothe tube coupling portion 146. A fluid passage 896 is defined throughthe tube coupling portion 892 to the outlet 884. The adapter 880 isformed from brass, aluminum, stainless steel, or any other suitablematerial, as desired by those of ordinary skill in the art.

In use, the tube coupling portion 892 is inserted into the femaleconnector 134 until an end portion 900 of the tube coupling portion 892contacts the shuttle 310. Then pressure is applied to grip member 888 tomove the shuttle 310 toward the barbed coupling portion 220, therebyopening valve defined by the flange 376 and the overmolded seal 342.When the valve is open, fluid flows through the fluid passage 896 andout of the outlet 884.

The apparatus 880 is useful, for example, to extract fluid from thefemale connector 134 without connecting the male connector 132 thereto.

Other Embodiments

In another embodiment, the internal assembly 276 is combined into asingle component. For example with reference to FIG. 31, the o-ring seal300, the spacer 302, the lip seal 304, the shuttle guide structure 308,and the o-ring seal 306 are formed as a single component using at leasta one stage molding process. In an exemplary multi stage molding processthe o-ring seal 300, the lip seal 304, and the o-ring seal 306 areformed from a first material and the spacer 302 and the shuttle guidestructure 308 are formed form a second material. The first material isthen permanently connected to the second material to form the singlecomponent. During assembly is this embodiment, the single component isinserted into the left body portion 274 in a single step to save timeand effort during assembly of the female component 134.

In another embodiment of the coupler system 106, the male connector 420includes a latch assembly (not shown) that is configured to latch to thefemale connector 422 to further connect the male connector 420 to thefemale connector 422. The latch assembly is movable between a latchedconfiguration and an unlatched configuration. In the latchedconfiguration, the latch assembly is oriented in an over centerposition.

In yet another embodiment of the coupler system 104, 106, the groovedcoupling portion 216, 494 is formed on an interior of the coupling ring184, 466 and the pins 282, 484 extend radially outward from the leftbody portion of the female connector 134, 422. This embodiment of thecoupler system 104, 106 operates substantially the same as the exemplaryembodiment illustrated in FIG. 23.

As illustrated in FIG. 23, the hose 110 is terminated with a maleconnector 132 and a female connector 420. In another embodiment, thehose 110 is terminated with two of the male connectors 134 or two of thefemale connectors 420.

In another embodiment, the pins 202 are retractable and positionabledirectly in the seated regions 234 without traversing the slide regions232.

In yet another embodiment of the coupler system 104, 106, the maleconnector 132, 420 includes a magnetic connection system (not shown)that is configured to connect the female connector 134, 422 to the maleconnector 420. The magnetic connection system includes a first magneticelement (not shown) associated with the male connector 132, 420 and asecond magnetic element (not shown) associated with the female connector134, 422. The magnetic elements are magnetically attracted to each otherto connect the male connector 132, 420 to the female connector 134, 422.In one particular embodiment, the magnetic elements include correlatedmagnets (also referred to as programmed magnets).

While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in thedrawings and foregoing description, the same should be considered asillustrative and not restrictive in character. It is understood thatonly the preferred embodiments have been presented and that all changes,modifications and further applications that come within the spirit ofthe disclosure are desired to be protected.

What is claimed is:
 1. A quick connect/disconnect system comprising: afirst connecting member including (i) a first body defining a firstfluid channel therethrough, the first body having a first couplingportion at a first end portion and a second coupling portion at a secondend portion, and (ii) a first rotating ring assembly rotatably connectedto the first body, the first rotating ring assembly extending about thesecond end portion and including a first mating feature on an internalsurface of the rotating ring assembly; a second connecting memberincluding (i) a third end portion defining a third coupling portion witha second fluid channel, (ii) a fourth end portion defining a fourthcoupling portion configured to couple with the second coupling portion,and (iii) a second mating feature on an external surface of the fourthend portion configured to rotatably engage the first mating feature,such that when the fourth coupling portion is coupled with the secondcoupling portion and the second mating feature is rotatably mated withthe first mating feature, the first fluid channel is in fluidcommunication with the second fluid channel.
 2. The system of claim 1,wherein the first mating feature and the second mating feature areconfigured such that rotation of the first rotating ring assembly whilethe first mating feature and the second mating feature are engagedforces the first connecting member to move axially with respect to thesecond connecting member.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein: the firstmating feature is a protuberance; and the second mating feature is ahelical slot.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the second connectingmember further comprises: a first coupling channel within the fourth endportion configured to receive the second coupling portion and extendingfrom a mouth toward the third end portion; a first resilient seal memberextending about the first coupling channel; a second resilient sealmember extending about the first coupling channel; and a spacerextending about the first coupling channel and located between the firstresilient seal member and the second resilient seal member.
 5. Thesystem of claim 2, wherein: the third coupling portion is an internallythreaded coupling portion; the second connecting member includes ashoulder extending about the second fluid channel; the second connectingmember includes a first coupling channel within the fourth end portionconfigured to receive the second coupling portion and extending from amouth toward the shoulder; the second connecting member further includesa seal member including a flange portion and a cylinder portion, theflange portion configured to abut the shoulder and the cylinder portionconfigured to extend within the first coupling channel; and the secondcoupling portion and the cylinder portion are sized such that rotationof the first rotating ring assembly in a first direction while the firstmating feature and the second mating feature are engaged forces thesecond coupling portion to move axially into contact with the cylinderportion.
 6. The system of claim 5, further comprising: a thirdconnecting member including (i) a third body defining a third fluidchannel therethrough, the third body having a fifth coupling portion ata fifth end portion and a sixth coupling portion at a sixth end portion,and (ii) a second rotating ring assembly rotatably connected to thethird body, the second rotating ring assembly extending about the sixthend portion and including a third mating feature on an internal surfaceof the second rotating ring assembly; a fourth connecting memberincluding (i) a seventh end portion defining a seventh coupling portionwith a fourth fluid channel, (ii) an eighth end portion defining aeighth coupling portion configured to couple with the sixth couplingportion, and (iii) a fourth mating feature on an external surface of theeighth end portion configured to rotatably engage the third matingfeature, such that when the eighth coupling portion is coupled with thesixth coupling portion and the fourth mating feature is rotatably matedwith the third mating feature, the third fluid channel is in fluidcommunication with the fourth fluid channel.
 7. The system of claim 6,wherein the fourth connecting member further comprises: a secondcoupling channel within the eighth end portion including a mouthconfigured to receive the sixth coupling portion and extending from themouth toward a seat portion; a shuttle movable within the secondcoupling channel and including a flange configured to form a seal withthe seat portion, and an extending portion extending within the secondcoupling channel; and a biasing member configured to bias the flangeinto sealing contact with the seat portion, wherein the sixth couplingportion and the extending portion are sized such that rotation of thesecond rotating ring assembly in a first direction while the thirdmating feature and the fourth mating feature are engaged forces thesixth coupling portion to move axially into contact with the extendingportion thereby forcing the flange away from the seat portion.
 8. Thesystem of claim 7, wherein the fourth connecting member furthercomprises: a third resilient seal member extending about the secondcoupling channel; a fourth resilient seal member extending about thesecond coupling channel; and a spacer extending about the secondcoupling channel and located between the third resilient seal member andthe fourth resilient seal member.
 9. The system of claim 2, wherein thesecond connecting member further comprises: a first coupling channelwithin the fourth end portion including a mouth configured to receivethe second coupling portion and extending from the mouth toward a seatportion; a shuttle movable within the first coupling channel andincluding a flange configured to form a seal with the seat portion, andan extending portion extending within the first coupling channel; and abiasing member configured to bias the flange into sealing contact withthe seat portion, wherein the second coupling portion and the extendingportion are sized such that rotation of the first rotating ring assemblyin a first direction while the first mating feature and the secondmating feature are engaged forces the second coupling portion to moveaxially into contact with the extending portion thereby forcing theflange away from the seat portion.
 10. The system of claim 9, whereinthe second connecting member further comprises: a first resilient sealmember extending about the first coupling channel; a second resilientseal member extending about the first coupling channel; and a spacerextending about the first coupling channel and located between the firstresilient seal member and the second resilient seal member.
 11. A methodof manipulating a quick connect/disconnect system comprising: connectinga first coupling portion of a first connecting member to a fluidconductor; inserting a second coupling portion of the first connectingmember within a third coupling portion of a second connecting member;inserting the third coupling portion within a ring assembly which isrotatably coupled to the first coupling portion; engaging a matingfeature on an external surface of the third coupling portion with amating feature on an internal surface of the ring assembly; rotating thering assembly about the third coupling portion while the first matingportion is engaged with the second mating portion; and forcing thesecond coupling portion to move further within the third couplingportion by rotation of the ring assembly.
 12. The method of claim 11,wherein engaging the mating feature on an external surface of the thirdcoupling portion with the mating feature on an internal surface of thering assembly comprises: inserting a protuberance of the ring assemblyinto a helical slot of the third coupling portion.
 13. The method ofclaim 11, wherein inserting the second coupling portion within the thirdcoupling portion comprises: inserting the second coupling portionthrough a first resilient seal member; inserting the second couplingportion past a spacer located adjacent to the first resilient sealmember; and inserting the second coupling portion through a secondresilient seal member located adjacent to the spacer.
 14. The method ofclaim 11, wherein: the method further comprises forcing a flange portionof a seal member against a shoulder extending about the second fluidchannel; and forcing the second coupling portion to move further withinthe third coupling portion comprises forcing the second coupling portionto move axially into contact with a cylinder portion of the seal member.15. The method of claim 11, wherein forcing the second coupling portionto move further within the third coupling portion comprises: forcing thesecond coupling portion against a shuttle of the second connectingmember; forcing the shuttle to move against a biasing force of a biasingmember with the second coupling portion; and breaking a seal between theshuttle and a channel defining portion of the second connecting memberby moving the shuttle.
 16. A leakfree system comprising: a firstconnecting member including (i) a first body defining a first fluidchannel therethrough, the first body having a first coupling portion ata first end portion and a second coupling portion at a second endportion, and (ii) a first rotating ring assembly rotatably connected tothe first body, the first rotating ring assembly extending about thesecond end portion and including a first mating feature on an internalsurface of the rotating ring assembly; and a second connecting memberincluding (i) a third end portion defining a third coupling portion witha second fluid channel, (ii) a fourth end portion defining a fourthcoupling portion configured to couple with the second coupling portion,and (iii) a second mating feature on an external surface of the fourthend portion configured to rotatably engage the first mating feature,such that when the fourth coupling portion is coupled with the secondcoupling portion and the second mating feature is rotatably mated withthe first mating feature, the first fluid channel is in fluidcommunication with the second fluid channel.
 17. The leakfree system ofclaim 16, further comprising: a first connecting assembly having a firstseal member; a second connecting assembly having a second seal memberand the first connecting assembly being coupled to the second connectingassembly; and a fluid device optionally connected to one of the firstand second connecting assemblies.